Nissan have officially secured their development lineup for the future, confirming that multiple Formula E race winner Sam Bird and F1 Academy Champion Abbi Pulling will stay with the squad into the 2026/27 campaign. Alongside announced full-time Formula E drivers Oliver Rowland and new signing Zane Maloney, this duo will handle crucial on-site and simulation tasks as the championship charges toward a brand new generation of machinery.
Bird is staying on board as the Reserve and Development Driver. Having raced in the championship since its inception until the conclusion of the 2024/25 season, Bird boasts a remarkable record of 12 wins, including a streak of at least one victory a year across his first seven seasons—a feat that has never been matched. He also stands among the exclusive group of drivers to win across all three generations of cars used in the series so far.
I've loved my work in the simulator and of course the sessions out on track, which have been the highlight of my time with the team.
Reflecting on the announcement, Bird stated: "Since joining the team I've really enjoyed my time here and been welcomed with open arms. We've completed plenty of positive work in the simulator and during testing as we prepare for the GEN4 era."
He continued, highlighting the technical workload ahead: "With a new car for Season 13, we've spent a lot of time setting the simulator up to ensure we can give Oliver and Zane the most accurate representation of the new features. As the weeks go by, we're developing a stronger understanding of the GEN4 machine and I'm pleased to be contributing to that. My aim for the upcoming season is to continue helping the team to the best of my ability, working with the engineering and strategy sides as well as the drivers so we can maximise our performance."
Meanwhile, Pulling continues in her role as the team's Rookie and Simulator driver. The GB3 race winner made history as the first woman to accomplish such an achievement, and her resume with the squad already includes participation in the Women’s Test, Miami Free Practices, and the Madrid Rookie Test, cementing her as a familiar and respected face in the paddock.
"I've really enjoyed being with Nissan Formula E Team and I'm delighted to continue in my role as we move into the GEN4 era," Pulling stated. "I've loved my work in the simulator and of course the sessions out on track, which have been the highlight of my time with the team."
She added: "I'm looking forward to exploring what the GEN4 car has to offer, starting in the simulator and then hopefully on race weekends. The new car will be a challenge for everyone, but it looks very exciting and appealing to drivers. A big thank you to the team for the support they've given me so far, and I can't wait to continue into Season 13!"
Bird and Pulling will continue their work alongside Rowland and Maloney ahead of Pre-Season Testing at Circuito del Jarama, Spain, scheduled for 16-20 November.
