Nicholas Latifi will step up from reserve to full Formula 1 race driver with Williams in 2020

Photo: Motorsport Images

Nicholas Latifi will partner George Russell at Williams in 2020 after the team confirmed he would take the seat left by Robert Kubica.

The Canadian will make his full Formula 1 debut next season having served as a reserve driver for the team in 2019.

The 24-year-old has taken part in several practice sessions this season, most recently at the Brazilian Grand Prix.

Latifi currently sits second in the Formula 2 championship ahead of the final round in Abu Dhabi in what is his fourth full season in the championship, dating back to 2016 when it was known as GP2.

“I am thrilled to be stepping up as Race Driver for 2020,” Latifi said.

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“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.”

Latifi has also served as test driver for Renault and Force India in 2016 and 2018 respectively before signing with Williams earlier this year.

Williams team principal Claire Williams said the Canadian was in the best position to make the step up to full race role after a season with the team already.

“I am delighted to announce that Nicholas will be stepping up to the role of Race Driver to partner George in 2020. 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.”