Mark Sutton/Sutton Images/LAT
2020 F1 grid complete as Williams confirms Latifi
Nicholas Latifi will step up from Formula 2 to Formula 1 in 2020, racing for Williams alongside George Russell next season.
The Canadian has carried out a number of Friday practice outings in his role as the team’s reserve driver this year, while currently sitting second in the F2 standings ahead of this weekend’s final round in Abu Dhabi. The 24-year-old will replace Robert Kubica at Williams next season following the Pole’s decision to leave the team, and Latifi says his promotion still doesn’t feel real.
“I'm extremely excited to be stepping up to a full-time F1 race drive next year,” Latifi said. “For me, it's a dream come true and something I've been working towards for almost half my life.
“It still feels a bit surreal. I don't think it will sink in fully until I'm on the grid in Melbourne next year.
"I'm grateful for the opportunity from Williams. I've had a very enjoyable first year there – right from my first day at the factory. There is a great atmosphere throughout the team and everyone made me feel comfortable straight away. That's important when you're stepping into a new environment.
“I can't wait to take the next step forward as a full-time race driver. I don't underestimate the challenge ahead, going into F1 as a rookie, but I'm extremely motivated and determined to give it my all. I'll give maximum effort and do whatever I can to help push the team forward and to achieve results we can be proud of.”
Deputy team principal Claire Williams says Latifi has performed well for Williams in his reserve driver role this season and earned the chance to stake his claim in a race seat next year.
“I am delighted to announce that Nicholas will be stepping up to the role of race driver to partner George in 2020,” Williams said. “All of us at Williams have been immensely impressed at what he has achieved this year in FIA Formula 2, along with his commitment to the team, and the work that he has put in behind the scenes.
“Nicholas has become an established and well-respected member of Williams, and we look forward to him stepping up into this new role, as we look to fight our way back to the midfield.”
The confirmation of Latifi’s promotion completes the 2020 grid, leaving Nico Hulkenberg without a race drive in F1 next year.
Chris Medland
While studying Sports Journalism at the University of Central Lancashire, Chris managed to talk his way into working at the British Grand Prix in 2008 and was retained for three years before joining ESPN F1 as Assistant Editor. After three further years at ESPN, a spell as F1 Editor at Crash Media Group was followed by the major task of launching F1i.com’s English-language website and running it as Editor. Present at every race since the start of 2014, he has continued building his freelance portfolio, working with international titles. As well as writing for RACER, his broadcast work includes television appearances on F1 TV and as a presenter and reporter on North America's live radio coverage on SiriusXM.
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