Latifi gets Williams F1 practice debut in Canada

Williams reserve driver Nicholas Latifi will make his first Formula 1 practice outing for the team at this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix.

The Canadian driver, who is the current Formula 2 Championship leader, will replace 2008 Canadian GP winner Robert Kubica behind the wheel of Williams’ FW42 during FP1.

Latifi made five FP1 appearances for Racing Point throughout 2018 and took part in pre-season and in-season testing for Williams earlier this year in Bahrain and Barcelona. He is scheduled to participate in five further practice outings with the British squad this season.

“I’m really excited to take part in my first FP1 session with the team,” he said.

“The fact that it’s at my home GP will definitely add an extra bit of excitement but nonetheless the goal still remains the same.

“I want to do a good job for the team and give them the feedback they need to guide them going into FP2.

“I feel really well prepared after the three days of in-season testing I have had, along with all the work I have conducted at the factory this year, I can’t wait to hit the track!”

Latifi holds a one-point lead over Nyck de Vries in the F2 standings after claiming three wins from the opening eight races.