Nicholas Latifi is the final member of the 2020 Formula 1 grid after being confirmed by Williams on Thursday.
The Canadian currently sits second in the F2 championship, 10 points ahead of Luca Ghiotto heading into this weekend’s finale in Abu Dhabi.
Latifi has also been reserve driver at Williams throughout this year and his promotion is not surprising having completed numerous Friday practice appearances, including at the last three Grands Prix.
As well as a solid track record in F2, the 24-year-old also brings a needed financial boost to Williams through his father, with that one of the reasons Nicholas was always expected to beat Nico Hulkenberg to the 2020 seat.
Naturally, Latifi was delighted when the decision was made official.
“I am thrilled to be stepping up as Race Driver for 2020,” he said.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with the team this year, supporting them with the development of the car, and assisting wherever I can trackside and at the factory.
“I look forward to the journey ahead with the team, and I am excited to make my Formula One debut at the Australian Grand Prix in 2020.”
Also Read:
- Williams now believing in future potential despite ‘brutal’ 2019
- Williams won’t sacrice next season despite 2021 ‘opportunity’
Just how competitive Williams will be is a big question, however, having spent the past two years stuck at the back of the grid.
But deputy boss Claire Williams is confident Latifi can work with Russell to push the team forward.
“I am delighted to announce that Nicholas will be stepping up to the role of Race Driver to partner George in 2020,” she said.
“All of us at Williams have been immensely impressed at what he has achieved this year in FIA Formula 2, along with his commitment to the team, and the work that he has put in behind the scenes.
“Nicholas has become an established and well-respected member of Williams, and we look forward to him stepping up into this new role, as we look to fight our way back to the midfield.”
