Williams has announced Franco Colapinto will complete his maiden outing in a Formula 1 weekend when he drives the side’s 2024 car in FP1 at the British Grand Prix.
Colapinto, a member of the Williams Driver Academy, has produced a positive start to his rookie season in Formula 2 with one win and two podiums placing him fifth.
The Argentinian, 21, made his F1 bow with the Grove-based squad at last term’s Young Driver Test and will now fulfil one of the side’s mandatory rookie FP1 showings.
Colapinto will take over Logan Sargeant’s car in the opening practice session at Silverstone before the American returns to the FW46 for the remainder of the weekend.
“I have so many emotions,” Colapinto said. “I am extremely delighted and it’s a very important moment in my life and my career.
“I will be the most prepared I can; I will be doing a lot of laps in the simulator and studying the details needed to drive this year’s car.
“I’m really looking forward to experiencing the new car after driving last year’s in Abu Dhabi.
“To be able to drive it at a track like Silverstone is a privilege, it is one of my favourite tracks and to drive it at the team’s home race means a lot.
“To all the Argentine fans – I hope you enjoy FP1 as much as I’m going to! It’s an important moment for our country and I’m so grateful for all the support I’ve been given.
“I’m going to give my all to make you proud!”
Williams Sporting Director Sven Smeets added: “Franco has had a very encouraging start to his debut season in F2 and we are delighted to reward his performances over the past two years with his first FP1 session.
“We are proud of our talented group of drivers in the Williams Racing Driver Academy and it is important for us to give them the opportunity to progress and have these important chances as they move up the ladder.
“To showcase our talent at our home race at Silverstone is a nice moment and, of course, this is going to be a great day for the Argentine F1 fans.”
