The Williams Martini Racing team have confidence that Paul di Resta can jump into the FW40 and do a good job after being drafted in to replace the ill Felipe Massa for the remainder of the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend.
Deputy Team Principal Claire Williams says the Scot was the best choice for the drive after it became clear that Massa was not fit enough to race, and although she expects di Resta to be nervous, she expects him to do well.
“I’m sure he’s probably fairly nervous,” said Williams in Hungary. “But Paul is an experienced driver, and I couldn’t feel happier actually that we have someone of Paul’s calibre and experience.
“Even though he may not have taken part in a race weekend for a couple of years, he’s driven this era’s hybrid cars, he’s driven in our 36, so I have confidence.
“Of course it’s going to be tough. He hasn’t had any practice, and he’s got to get straight into qualifying in an hour’s time. I’m sure there are some nerves there, he hasn’t had much time to get ready, but I have utter confidence in him that if anyone ca do this, Paul can.”
Williams began modifying the car during final practice for di Resta, with the team making preparations overnight knowing that there was a possibility that Massa could withdraw.
“It’s not as complicated as you probably imagine,” said Williams. “There are a few changes to make inside the cockpit.
“Obviously Paul’s a little bit taller than Felipe, but they rehearsed it last night, and it takes about 40 minutes to make the changes.
“Paul has his licence, that’s all sorted, and obviously in preparation last night we knew that potentially this could be an option for us. So we made sure everything was in place.”
