Jean-Eric Vergne signs for Techeetah team for the 2017 season

It has been announced this morning that Jean-Eric Vergne will join Ma Qing Hua in the new-look Techeetah team.

Vergne has signed for the new team that will make its debut next season after buying the license from ex Formula E team Team Aguri after a single season with the DS Virgin squad.

Leading sports marketing and management company SECA, which is owned by Chinese Media Capital (CMC) made the announcement this morning and also confirmed officially for the first time that it is behind the Techeetah (pronounced as “Ta-chi- ta”) Formula-E Team.

SECA also confirmed that the new team will have a minority French partner as well in the new team. This is believed to be some of the same people who were involved in the investment of Team Aguri after original founder Peter McCool left the team after season one.

In a statement to the media this morning, Sheng Li, founder and CEO of SECA stated the following about joining the series as follows:-

“Formula E rep0resents a global vision for the future of the motorsport industry. Formula E offers a rare global sports opportunity with its unique positioning around the Environment, Energy and Entertainment,” said Li.

“Racing in Formula E opens up marketing, and fan engagement possibilities for global and Chinese brands. Techeetah Formula E Team is a global team with unique access to Chinese and European fans through our two star drivers next year.”

The deal for CMC through SECA to enter Formula One was given significant influence and weight by Formula E Holdings CEO Alejandro Agag, who added the following about the team joining the series:-

“Formula E is very happy to welcome the new Team Techeetah, backed by SECA, to our Championship.
“China is one of the big priorities of this Championship. Our first race ever took place in Beijing, and the country is doing great efforts towards electrification of mobility.

“We will work together with SECA and our Chinese partners to expand Formula E in China, and reach out to millions of potential new fans.”

The Techeetah Formula E Team will make its debut at the Hong Kong ePrix in October 2016.

Sarah Jones- @jonesy_laaa