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Williams has announced that Nicholas Latifi has joined as its reserve driver for the 2019 Formula 1 season. The Canadian driver worked as Force India/Racing Point's reserve driver for the 2018 season, after spending two years at Renault.
Williams will field an all-new line-up in 2019, with Mercedes junior George Russell partnering returnee Robert Kubica. The Grove squad confirmed that Latifi will drive in six FP1 sessions, two in-season test days, one pre-season test day in Barcelona and two Pirelli test days.
“I'm thrilled to be joining an iconic team like Williams as a Reserve Driver for 2019," the 23-year-old said. "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."
Latifi finished in ninth place in the 2018 Formula 2 championship standings, his fourth year in the series that was previously known as GP2. Williams added that he would be "fully immersed into the team both trackside and in the factory at Grove whilst undertaking simulator sessions".
"As well as this, a big part of my role will be simulator driving and helping to support the development of the new car," Latifi continued. "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.”
Williams' deputy team principal Claire Williams added: “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 FP1 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.”
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C. Sainz jr
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