McLaren junior driver Lando Norris will take part in his first Formula 1 session this weekend as the team evaluates its options for the 2019 season.
Norris, who is currently second in the Formula 2 championship, will replace Fernando Alonso for the first free practice session ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix.
This will be the 18-year-old’s first F1 outing, though he has driven in a number of tests, including the recent post-Hungary mid-season test.
“Driving in Friday morning’s F1 practice will be super cool and a great experience,” said Norris.
“It’ll also be good to get back to racing again. Spa is my favourite track so I’m really looking forward to racing there again.
“I had a good break since the F1 test in Hungary.”
Norris is one of a number of drivers on McLaren’s short list to drive alongside Carlos Sainz Jnr in 2019.
Current driver Stoffel Vandoorne and Mercedes junior Esteban Ocon are also options for the upcoming season.
“This is not only part of his ongoing development, but also the evaluation and performance evolution of the car,” said sporting director Gil de Ferran.
“We’ll be taking a strategic view race-by-race at where else this might be beneficial for us over the coming grands prix.”
