Nissany handed Williams F1 test driver role, will drive in FP1s

Formula 2 driver Roy Nissany will carry out a test driver role for the Williams Formula 1 team during the 2020 season.

The 25-year-old Isreali will take part in three opening practice sessions for Williams during 2020 as well as driving the team’s FW43 challenger on a rookie test day as part of his role.

Nissany drove for Williams in the post-season Abu Dhabi tyre test last December in what marked his first official experience behind the wheel of an F1 car, having previously carried out a private test for Sauber at Valencia in 2014.

“I am thrilled to become official test driver for ROKiT Williams Racing,” Nissany said.

“This is also a landmark for motorsport in Israel. When I tested for the team in Abu Dhabi in December, I instantly felt comfortable in the car and part of the team.

“The experience that I will gain this year, immersing myself with Williams will prove invaluable and I’m looking forward to getting started, both on and off the track.”

Nissany finished 22nd in the 2018 F2 Championship but did not compete in 2019 due to an injury. Williams’ announcement stated that he would be returning to the series in 2020, though the team he will drive for has not yet been confirmed.

Deputy team principal Claire Williams added: “It is a pleasure to welcome Roy Nissany to ROKiT Williams Racing in the role of our official test driver.

“Roy demonstrated his capabilities driving in the post-season Abu Dhabi test last year and we were extremely impressed with what he could do in a short space of time.

“He is a hard-working individual who we are excited to be working with this year.”