On the eve of the Ad Diriyah E-Prix, Venturi Formula E has confirmed a multi-year partnership with Swiss watchmaker, Richard Mille.
Holding strong associations within motorsport and boasting a proud racing heritage, Richard Mille has a number of affiliations with Formula 1 teams while its partnership with Venturi sees the company extend its relationship with Felipe Massa as the Brazilian driver takes the next step in his career.
The deal, which stands up until Season Seven, will see the Richard Mille logo appear on both the side and top of the nose cone of Venturi's VFE05 challenger while branding will also feature on the inside of the Halo device which is one of many new introductions to the ABB FIA Formula E Championship for the 2018/19 season.
“I’m very happy to bring Richard Mille into the Venturi family, I’ve loved working with them over the years," said Massa who will make his competitive Formula E debut this weekend.
"Their unwavering commitment to retain the beauty of their hand-craftmanship whilst driving future horological innovation without compromise really impresses me. It sets them apart and I’m pleased that we can continue our partnership now into Formula E.
"I’m sure we will do them proud. I’m really looking forward to getting out on the track in Ad Diriyah, I’ve had over six months with the VENTURI VFE-05, in private testing, official testing and the simulator, but there’s nothing like driving the race itself.
"The track looks incredible, I know how tough my competition will be, but I have a great team and a strong team-mate in place, with great partners on board too, all the pieces of the puzzle are there to put on a high-quality show.”
“It’s impressive to see how far Formula E has evolved in just four short years," continued Venturi Formula E Team President, Gildo Pastor.
"The appeal of the series is clear for all to see, with incredible partners like Richard Mille and so many other respected blue chip brands flocking to participate. It’s a new era we’re looking forward to entering on Saturday.
"A year ago, I started the process of overhauling my team, as I wanted Venturi Formula E Team to be ready to challenge in a Championship that will be more competitive than ever.
"After working with HWA and bringing in Felipe Massa and Susie Wolff, the task of strengthening and optimising the team structure has continued under Susie and myself.
"This is now the perfect time for us to welcome new partners such as Richard Mille onboard. Now I can’t wait to see those lights go out at 12:00 GMT on Saturday!”
Venturi Formula E Team Pricnipal, Susie Wolff, added: “I’m absolutely delighted to welcome Richard Mille to the family. As the only Monaco based team, it’s an honor to have official partners on board who have a great history and presence in our home.
"We’ve spent a huge amount of time and energy preparing for the race on Saturday, my job now is to focus on making the very most of all the opportunities available to us at this landmark event.”
Season Five of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship commences this weekend with the inaugural Ad Diriyah E-Prix.
