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Delighted De Vries can put the pressure on Latifi with test in Spain

Delighted De Vries can put the pressure on Latifi with test in Spain

16-05-2022 10:30 Last update: 12:42
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GPblog.com

Nyck de Vries will make his debut in Formula 1 at the Spanish Grand Prix this weekend. The Dutchman will be in action on behalf of Williams during the first free practice session at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

For De Vries, his dream is finally coming true, as the Dutchman may finally debut in F1. After an F2 title and a world championship in Formula E, his trophy cabinet is bulging, but he did not get a chance in F1 yet. That will change this weekend during the GP in Spain.

Opportunity for De Vries

''Firstly, I’d really like to thank Williams for the opportunity to run in FP1. It’s great for me to get to know the team and drive the FW44, and also to get myself out on track during a Formula One weekend. Preparation for the test is going well so far and the team have been incredibly supportive of me. I’m very much looking forward to the whole experience in Spain now!'' the Dutchman let it be known in the press release from Williams.

At Williams they will also look with interest at the performance of De Vries. Nicholas Latifi's performance this year has been underwhelming and the Dutchman was previously linked to the seat of the Canadian. Although Williams denies these rumors, it is not surprising when the performances of De Vries and Latifi in Spain are compared.

Williams looks at performance

''We are looking forward to having Nyck de Vries in the car for FP1 as it is always good to work with a new driver and get a fresh opinion on the car's strengths and weaknesses. Nyck's experience and professionalism will be crucial on Friday as he will complete some of the key engineering tests in FP1 before he hands the car back to Alex for FP2'', said Dave Robson, Head of Vehicle Performance at Williams.

Sporting Director Sven Smeets is also looking forward to De Vries' debut. ''I’m looking forward to seeing Nyck join the team for FP1 at the Spanish Grand Prix. As he is a very talented and experienced driver I have no doubt that he’ll maximise his time in the FW44 and deliver a strong, capable performance for the team,'' concludes the Belgian.