Russian Time Formula 2 driver Luca Ghiotto will make his Formula 1 test debut for Williams during next week’s test following the Hungarian Grand Prix.
The Italian came second in the 2015 GP3 championship to current F1 driver Esteban Ocon. He joined Trident’s GP2 team for 2016, finishing in eighth place in the standings, a win in Malaysia the highlight of a solid debut season.
Ghiotto switched to Russian time for a second year in the series and has scored three podium finishes so far this season.
The 22-year-old will share the Williams FW40 with regular Felipe Massa next week during the two-day test.
“A big thanks to Williams for this opportunity,” said Ghiotto.
“I think the first F1 test for any driver is a special moment, and to do it with such a historic team is even better so I’m really excited.
“Of course, I also need to focus on the F2 weekend beforehand, but I’m really looking forward to the test and I really hope it goes well.”
Ghiotto is the latest in a long line of young drivers to test for Williams in recent years. He will be hoping to avoid the same fate as his former GP2 rival Alex Lynn who failed to progress from testing to racing for Williams last year.
“Our team has a strong track record for developing young talent, and we always enjoy seeing young drivers getting opportunities to demonstrate their ability,” said Claire Williams, deputy team principal.
“I look forward to seeing how he performs in the car next month.”
Alongside the already confirmed Robert Kubica (Renault), Sauber has revealed Honda protegee Nobuharu Matsushita will be making his F1 test debut next week.
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