Nicholas Latifi has been announced as a Reserve Driver for Williams Martini Racing for the 2019 season.
The twenty-three year old Canadian has had a successful career in junior categories, and is a multi Formula 2 race winner. He has also had three outings testing for the Sahara Force India F1 Team earlier in the season, in Canada, Germany and Russia.
In 2019, he will compete in a total of six Free Practice 1 sessions, as well as two in-season test days, one day of pre-season testing in Barcelona and finally two Pirelli test days.
Latifi said: “I’m thrilled to be joining an iconic team like Williams as a Reserve Driver for 2019. It’s a fantastic opportunity to continue my Formula 1 development, and to build my on-track experience with more Free Practice 1 sessions and the rookie and the Pirelli tests.”
Latifi’s duties with the team will also include simulator work, meaning he will be fully involved with the development of the team throughout the season.
“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 helping wherever I can.
“This is an amazing opportunity that I’ve been given and I’m excited to get started.”
Deputy Team Principal, Claire Williams, backed the Canadian’s appointment.
She said: “I am delighted to confirm Nicholas Latifi as a Reserve Driver for the 2019 season. 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.
“Nicholas will drive in Free Practice 1 sessions and at several tests next year. Along with this, he will undertake simulator work for the team. We are certain he will be a great fit for the team and we look forward to working with Nicholas next season.”
