Williams happy for De Vries: 'He was looking forward to this for years'.

Nyck de Vries has started a special weekend in his career. The Dutchman makes his Formula 1 racing debut with Williams as a replacement for Alexander Albon. Team boss Jost Capito has every confidence in the 27-year-old driver.

Albon will not be able to take advantage of the fast-looking Williams at Monza this weekend, as the driver has contracted appendicitis and is unable to race. It does provide a great opportunity for De Vries, however, as the Dutchman can convince Williams of his talent as a replacement for the Thai driver.

Great opportunity De Vries

"I would say it’s his first ever Formula 1 race. I think this is quite some pressure, but I think he’s very excited about it. He was looking forward to this to happen for many years, so finally it happens. It’s a shame for Alex, because I think the car is quite good here. Alex could have had a really good race, but on the other hand, now that he can’t drive, it’s great to have Nyck in and give him the chance," the Williams team principal told Viaplay.

For now, De Vries is showing what he can do, as the Dutchman advanced to Q2 of qualifying, beating teammate Nicholas Latifi. The Canadian flew out in Q1. There are a lot of grid penalties this weekend, so it is very likely that De Vries will start from a good place in the grid for the Italian Grand Prix.