Williams has announced that its academy and reserve driver, Luke Browning, will get two consecutive FP1 outings at the next two Formula 1 Grands Prix.
The Briton has been a long-term asset of the Grove-based squad, having now entered his fourth year as a member of its academy programme.
Amid his Formula 2 exploits over the last two years, Browning has been handed four previous FP1 appearances, most recently at last year’s curtain-closer in Abu Dhabi.
And with a break in his schedule from the Japanese Super Formula series, Browning will take Alex Albon’s place in the FW48 this Friday ahead of the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix, and at the following round in Austria, deputising for Carlos Sainz.
“I can’t wait to get behind the wheel of the FW48 for the first time, and to have two opportunities to experience the car first-hand in the European season makes it even more special,” Browning said.
“I’ve been working hard to prepare so that I can make the most of these sessions and help the team plan and prepare for the race weekends ahead.
“I’m incredibly thankful to everyone at Atlassian Williams F1 Team for their continued trust and support, and I can’t wait to get out on track.”
Williams’ Sporting Director, Sven Smeets, said: “Luke continues to prove himself as a valuable part of the team, both through his simulator work and his performances on track. Giving him his first opportunity to get behind the wheel of the FW48 across two race weekends is an important step in his development and a natural progression.
“We have a talented group of young drivers in the Williams F1 Team Driver Academy, and we’re pleased to continue providing opportunities like this to support drivers’ progression and development.”
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