Formula 2 race winner Nicholas Latifi has signed with the Williams team as their reserve driver for the 2019 F1 season.
Although Latifi had a development role with Force India this year, that failed to lead to a promotion within the team, leaving the Canadian searching for further options.
Signing with Williams for 2019, he will not only test next year’s FW42 on the opening day of pre-season testing but will also take part in three in-season test days as well as six Friday morning practice sessions.
“I’m thrilled to be joining an iconic team like Williams as a reserve driver for 2019,” said Latifi.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to continue my F1 development, and to build my on-track experience with more FP1 sessions and the rookie and Pirelli tests.
“As well as this, a big part of my role will be simulator driving and helping to support the development of the new car.
“I look forward to spending time in the factory at Grove, immersing myself within the team and assisting wherever I can.
“This is an amazing opportunity that I’ve been given and I’m excited to get started.”
The Formula 2 race winner has yet to confirm his full 2019 programme but is expected to spend a further season racing in F2 as he searches for the necessary superlicence points needed to compete in F1.
“Nicholas has been racing successfully in the junior formula, he has the racing pedigree that we’re looking for and he is incredibly intelligent and diligent,” said Williams deputy team principal Claire Williams.
“We are certain he will be a great fit for the team and we look forward to working with Nicholas next season.”
Williams have already announced Robert Kubica and George Russell as their drivers for the 2019 season.
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