Williams F1 junior handed Abu Dhabi debut

The Williams F1 team has confirmed Luke Browning will take part in the opening free practice session in Abu Dhabi later this year.

It marks the first time Browning will take part in an official F1 weekend session.

The Briton will stay behind after the race event around the Yas Marina Circuit and also drive the post-season test with the Grove-based squad.

Browning will take over Alex Albon's seat for the FP1 in Abu Dhabi, as Franco Colapinto stood in for Logan Sargeant earlier this year.

“It’s an honour to be driving a Williams F1 car for the first time in Abu Dhabi,” Browning said. 

“To have the chance to not only take part in the Young Driver Test but also Free Practice is incredibly special. 

“A huge thank you to everyone at Williams Racing for supporting my development as part of the Williams Racing Driver Academy and entrusting me with the FW46. I’ll be working hard to prepare and make the most of the opportunity.”

Browning stepped up to Formula 2 in Baku earlier this year after finishing third in the Formula 3 championship.

The 22-year-old took two race wins and a further podium during the F3 campaign.

Sven Smeets, Sporting Director at Williams, added: “Luke has had an impressive Formula 3 season and has taken the transition to Formula 2 in his stride, performing well from his first outing in Baku. 

“Throughout this year, he has made important contributions to the team through his development work and has demonstrated rapid progress in his understanding, maturity, and race craft. 

“We are now looking forward to giving Luke the opportunity to drive the FW46 in Abu Dhabi as the next step in his development as a Williams Racing Academy driver.”