F1 News

Rule 8.5 B. II of 2022 regulations helps De Vries make F1 debut

16 May 2022 at 13:23
Last update 16 May 2022 at 15:12
  • GPblog.com

Two Dutch drivers will drive during the first free practice session of the Spanish Grand PrixMax Verstappen and Nyck de Vries will be seen on the circuit. The Formula E driver gets the chance to test at Williams because of a new rule.

De Vries take advantage of Rule 8.5 B. II

In addition to the modified technical regulations, there have also been major changes to the sporting regulations. Under heading 8.5 in the rulebook, which deals with the testing of current F1 cars, section B. II states, "One or two days of testing must be entirely in the service of providing an opportunity in Formula One to 'Young Drivers'."

Although De Vries, at 27, will not exactly be the youngest driver in Spain, the Dutchman is still eligible for a spot under this rule. The 'Young Drivers' to be used by the teams must have an international A license and must not have participated in more than two F1 weekends during their career. The Dutchman did drive an F1 car before during tests after the 2021 season. But the upcoming FP1 will be his debut in an F1 championship.

That De Vries will take over from Alexander Albon is somewhat unexpected. The Dutchman, as a Mercedes reserve driver, was previously linked by GPBlog.com to teams such as Mercedes, McLaren and Aston Martin for a training session. It is possible that we will still see him with one of these teams later this year. After his first practice session this weekend in Spain, he will after all still be under the limit of two participations in an F1 weekend.

 
 
 
 
 
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