Ousted Abt returns to Formula E with NIO 333

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Daniel Abt, who was fired in May by Audi for an ill-fated imposture scheme in a round of Formula E's 'Race at Home Challenge', will return to the all-electric series next month with the NIO 333 team.

Abt will deputise at NIO for Ma Qinghua in the final six races of the 2019-20 season as the Chinese driver is restricted to travel to Europe due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Formula E's final six events will all take place at Berlin's Temelhof airport circuit.

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"I always loved racing and Formula E, therefore the opportunity to race in the final six races, my home races, and continue my record of competing in every single Formula E race is very exciting," said Abt who will partner Oliver Turvey at NIO.

"I have been working with a leading manufacturer for the last three years, therefore, I have a lot of experience and input for the team.

"I will do everything I can to achieve results together with Oliver."

NIO 333 boss Vincent wang added: "When the possibility of signing Daniel for the Berlin finale was presented to me, it was an exciting prospect.

"As the saying goes in the eastern world, ‘a prodigy who returns is more precious than gold’, but the controversies surrounding him during the 'Race at Home Challenge' reached quite a high level and will bring two opposite opinions.

'In the end, after discussing with some key figures of the paddock, we have decided to give Daniel an opportunity to return to Formula E.

"We welcome him with open arms into the team, we hope the home hero will redouble our efforts to finish this extraordinary season in style!"

NIO 333 won't be the only team where a driver swap will happen in Berlin, with Mahindra sealing a deal with Alex Lynn for the remainder of the FE season, with the Briton replacing Porsche-bound Pascal Wehrlein.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.