Audi Sport Abt Schaeffler has confirmed that it will sport an unchanged driver line-up for Formula E's sixth season of competition, with both Daniel Abt and Lucas di Grassi remaining with the team.
Di Grassi and Abt have been team-mates since Formula E's inaugural race in Beijing since 2014 and as such, are the most successful team pairing on the grid, scoring 40 podiums and 1,027 points while also securing the Teams' Championship for the German marque last season.
Earlier this season, Abt's position within the team appeared to be insecure, with reserve driver Nico Mueller falling into contention for the second seat at Audi after performing testing worth for the team throughout Season 5.
"With eight title candidates before the final weekend, we’re currently seeing the most exciting Formula E season to date and expect the competition to become even fiercer with Mercedes’ and Porsche’s entries next season,” sais Dieter Gass, Head of Audi Motorsport.
"By confirming our two drivers early on, we also want to send a clear message to our competitors: we will be optimally prepared and are happy to take on the challenge. Besides meticulous development and testing of the new car, this also includes our clear commitment to our two drivers."
With two races remaining in Formula E this season, both di Grassi and Abt stand a mathematical chance of taking the Drivers' Championship, with di Grassi trailing Jean-Eric Vergne by 32 points while Abt has a 55 point disadvantage.
While DS Techeetah also leads the Teams' Championship, Audi Sport Abt Schaeffler alongside Envision Virgin Racing and Nissan e.dams also stand a chance of taking the second crown, trailing the Franco-Chinese squad by 43 points.
“We still have big aims for New York, so tackling the last two races and subsequent pre-season preparations with this confirmation and positive thoughts is even sweeter,” added Abt.
“I’ve never felt as comfortable in a team and a series as I have with Audi in Formula E. I’m proud of the trust that’s being placed in me and will do everything to express my thanks with performance.”
The double-header New York City E-Prix will take place this weekend on July 13 and 14.
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