Williams will give F1 test run to juniors Zak O’Sullivan and Franco Colapinto in Abu Dhabi, with the former getting a FP1 drive.
Going with the trend, Williams has announced F1 test runs for its juniors O’Sullivan and Colapinto in Abu Dhabi. The two F3 drivers – who are soon to graduate to F2 – ware being rewarded for a solid 2023 season in their respective campaigns.
Out of the two, O’Sullivan will make his FP1 debut in Abu Dhabi GP in place of Alexander Albon to fulfill the FIA’s rookie requirement. With Logan Sargeant driving in Bahrain GP as a rookie, he already fulfilled his seat’s requirement.
O’Sullivan will get to drive the Williams FW45 for the second time in Abu Dhabi in the post-season young drivers’ test where he will share the care with Colapinto. Both will then start their F2 programme with ART and MP Motorsport respectively at Yas Marina circuit.
Williams also confirmed Albon and Sargeant for the post-season Abu Dhabi test. “Both Zak and Franco have had impressive seasons in Formula 3 and we’re now looking forward to giving them the opportunity to drive the FW45 in Abu Dhabi to aid their development as part of their roles in the Williams Racing Driver Academy,” said Sven Smeets.
“The pair have demonstrated a high level of understanding and maturity during their simulator work conducted at Grove. I know they’ll both be working hard in preparation for this experience and will make the most of it.”
Meanwhile, O’Sullivan stated: “I’m really excited to participate in FP1 at Abu Dhabi. I can’t wait to get behind the wheel of the FW45 for the first time and get some good mileage under my belt. In addition to that, I’m returning to the car for the post-season rookie test to further my development with the team. Huge thanks to Williams Racing for the opportunity and for putting their faith in me to drive the 2023 car.”
While Colapinto added: “I am extremely grateful to Williams Racing for giving me the opportunity to drive an F1 car in only my first year in the Academy. I’ve been dreaming of this day since I was a kid and have been working really hard for this. To have this chance at the official young driver test is a real honour. Thank you to the team for entrusting me with the FW45. Being part of the Academy this year has opened my eyes in so many different areas and I feel ready to make this step. I can’t wait.”
Here’s Zak O’Sullivan being confirmed for F2
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