Williams has announced the signing of Franco Colapinto to its junior programme for the 2023 season.
Colapinto spent the 2022 campaign racing his rookie season in FIA Formula 3, competing for Van Amersfoort Racing and finishing ninth in the standings.
Colapinto will remain in F3 this year, making the switch to MP Motorsport.
Williams says that Colapinto will be working with the team both trackside and at the factory, collaborating with various departments to build his experience.
This will include work in the F1 simulator to aid the development of Williams’ 2023 F1 car.
“It’s a real honour to join Williams Racing Team as an Academy Driver,” Colapinto said.
“They are one of the most successful teams in Formula 1 history and I am looking forward to following in the footsteps of my fellow countryman Carlos Reutemann.
“It’s an incredible opportunity for which I am forever grateful. Thanks to everyone at Williams for putting their trust in me.
“I am also excited to announce that I will be back with MP Motorsport for the 2023 FIA F3 season. I really enjoyed my time with the team in Eurocup and FRECA and we achieved some great results together.
“The goal is to reach even higher this time. My first year in FIA F3 was all about learning and I will use all the knowledge I’ve gathered to aim for the title next year.”
Williams has several drivers in its academy, the most lucrative being Logan Sargeant, who will race for it full-time in F1 this year.
Jamie Chadwick, Roy Nissany, Zak O’Sullivan and Oliver Gray also hold positions in the programme.
Sven Smeets, Williams’ Sporting Director, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Franco to the Williams Racing Driver Academy.
“His career achievements since starting karting highlight Franco’s natural ability behind the wheel and what he’s capable of in the years to come.
“He had a standout rookie season in Formula 3 with several strong performances that led to podiums and wins. We look forward to working closely with Franco to support and nurture his development as a driver.”
