Former Formula E driver Simona de Silvestro has revealed that she is "hungry for more track time" after testing for Venturi in the post-Ad Diriyah E-Prix in-season test.
De Silvestro, who raced in the all-electric single seater series in its second season of competition for Andretti, completed testing duties for Venturi on the outskirts of Riyadh alongside full-time drivers Felipe Massa and Edoardo Mortara.
After two sessions of running that lasted for a collective six hours, de Silvestro ended the day as the fastest female driver, setting a best time of a 1m 12.048s, headling Tatiana Calderon who trailed by 0.181s driving for current championship leaders DS Techeetah.
“It’s been very special to participate in the test," she said as one of nine female drivers present.
"The car felt great, we had some typical testing tweaks to make but the speed of the improvements made by the team was really impressive and bodes well for the season ahead.
"I like the track here, it’s really challenging to drive and I enjoyed seeing what the car could do, it’s left me hungry for more track time.
"We shouldn’t underestimate the impact that an event like today can have on future female driving talent. Or any motorsport talent for that matter.
"I really hope that we have inspired young people out there who are may be considering a career in this industry. We’re proof that if you work hard, great things are possible regardless of your gender.”
Susie Wolff, Venturi Formula E Team Principal, hailed de Silvestro's experience as "invaluable," admitting that the team has work to do ahead of the next race of Season Five in Marrakesh:
“The team worked well together and Simona did exactly what we brought her in to do, the feedback she provided is invaluable," she said.
"She’s a great competitor and it’s good to end our weekend in Saudi Arabia on a positive note. We have lots of work ahead of round two in Marrakesh but we’re already looking forward to being back out on track in the New Year.”
The Marrakesh E-Prix will take place on January 12.
