Sainz to miss FP1 as Williams junior gets "dream come true"

Luke Browning will take over from Carlos Sainz to fulfil one of Williams' rookie FP1 sessions at this weekend's Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix.

The Briton has impressed in F2 since his step up from F3 at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend last term, going onto make his F1 race weekend bow in a rookie session at the Abu Dhabi season-finale.

He will take over Sainz's FW47 to complete one of four rookie sessions each team must complete across a campaign [two per car], joining Frederik Vesti, Felipe Drugovich and Ryo Hirakawa on track.

"Being given another opportunity to drive in a Free Practice session with Williams is a dream come true, and I'm getting more and more confidence each time I drive the car," said Browning.

"My main aim for FP1 is to get more comfortable with the procedures and environment that come with Formula 1, and to build on my experience from Abu Dhabi last December.

"I’m excited to feel the progression from the FW46 to the FW47 and I feel incredibly grateful to James, Sven and the team at Grove for entrusting me with the car. A lot of preparation has gone into this weekend, so thank you to everyone in the Driver Academy for supporting my development so far."

Strong progress

Williams sporting director Sven Smeets added: "Luke has made strong progress since his first Formula 2 weekend last year and scored good points in the opening race of the season in Australia.

"His previous FP1 experience, participation in our TPC programme, and simulator work have prepared him well for this weekend and we look forward to seeing him take this next step forward in his development."