Three Friday runs for Williams’ Latifi

Nicholas Latifi will effectively audition for a 2020 Williams race seat at the next three grand prix, driving the FW42 in the opening Friday practice session.

Williams are in the hunt for a new driver for next season after Robert Kubica announced his departure.

Latifi, who earlier this year was linked to Kubica’s seat as the Pole struggled in his first season back in the sport, is the favourite.

Although not billed as such, Williams will effectively audition for the Canadian over the course of the next three races.

Latifi will drive the FW42 in three FP1 sessions, starting at the Mexican Grand Prix.

“I’m really excited to get back in the car in Mexico as it feels like a long time since my previous outing at Spa,” said Latifi.

“I got the chance to drive in Mexico last year in FP1, so I am familiar with what to expect.

“It’s quite a unique track because of the elevation, so you have a lack of grip, which makes it challenging.

“As always, my goal remains the same for FP1, to have a clean session and help guide the team going into FP2.”

He will replace Kubica at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez circuit before taking George Russell’s car in Austin.

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