Franco Colapinto to drive for Williams in FP1 at British Grand Prix

Williams has confirmed that Franco Colapinto will be behind the wheel of the 2024-spec FW46 during this weekend’s British Grand Prix for Free Practice 1.

The Argentine will be driving in place of Logan Sargeant for what will be his first time driving an F1 car on a Grand Prix weekend.

The MP Motorsport driver has driven for the British outfit before, taking part in last year’s post-season test in Abu Dhabi as he got his first taste of Formula 1 experience around the Yas Marina Circuit.

Speaking about the opportunity, Colapinto said he couldn’t wait to get back behind the wheel in F1 and he was hugely grateful for the FP1 session.

“I have so many emotions,” said Coalpinto. “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!”

Colapinto has been in fine form recently in Formula 2, most recently taking P2 in the Spielberg Feature Race this past weekend at the Red Bull Ring. He also earned a maiden victory in the Championship back at Imola in the Sprint event.

Heading to Silverstone, he finds himself fifth in the Drivers’ Championship standings, level on 75 points with Rodin Motorsport’s Zane Maloney in fourth.

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."