Nissan have confirmed that they will be retaining multiple Formula E race winner Sam Bird, and F1 Academy Champion Abbi Pulling, as part of their 2026/27 campaign in the all-electric championship.
Alongside their announced full-time Formula E drivers, 2024/25 World Champion Oliver Rowland and new signing Zane Maloney, Bird and Pulling will provide essential help for the team both on-site and through simulation work.
Bird continues as Nissan Reserve
Bird joined the Nissan Formula E team in November 2025 and is their Reserve and Development Driver. Having raced in the championship since its inception until the 2024/25 season concluded, Bird achieved 12 wins in that time and won at least one race a year across his first seven seasons – something that has never been achieved since. He is also part of a small group of drivers to have won races across all three generations of cars used in the series.
"Since joining the team I've really enjoyed my time here and been welcomed with open arms,” Bird stated. “We've completed plenty of positive work in the simulator and during testing as we prepare for the GEN4 era.
“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."
Pulling remains Rookie and Simulator driver
For Pulling, this news marks another year as the team’s Rookie and Simulator driver. The GB3 race winner – the first woman to accomplish such an achievement – has participated in the Women’s Test with Nissan, as well as Miami Free Practices and the Madrid Rookie Test and is a respected and familiar face within the Formula E 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 added. “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.
“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 working alongside Rowland and Maloney ahead of Pre-Season Testing at Circuito del Jarama, Spain on 16-20 November.
Find out more
GEN4: A new era of Formula E is about to begin
WATCH: How to watch every Formula E race in your country
CALENDAR: Here's every race set for the 2026/27 Formula E season
TICKETS: Secure your grandstand seats and buy Formula E race tickets
