Nicholas Latifi will take part in the first free practice session for Williams at the Mexican Grand Prix this weekend, taking over Robert Kubica’s car.

Williams have confirmed that his participation in Friday’s opening session will be the first of three consecutive outings, and the Formula 2 driver will use Kubica’s car, before switching to George Russell’s car in Austin.

Latifi, who is Williams’ reserve driver, is currently racing for DAMS in Formula 2, and is in second place, 10 points ahead of Luca Ghiotto going into the final round at Abu Dhabi next month.

The Canadian has taken part in three previous practice sessions this year – at the Canadian, French and Belgian Grands Prix – and will now take part in the next three weekends as Williams evaluate his abilities ahead of considering him for the 2020 seat made available by Kubica’s departure at the end of the season.

“I’m really excited to get back in the car in Mexico as it feels like a long time since my previous outing at Spa.” commented Latifi.

“I got the chance to drive in Mexico last year in FP1, so I am familiar with what to expect.

“As always, my goal remains the same for FP1, to have a clean session and help guide the team going into FP2.”

Williams have been testing new parts at recent races, with the Grove based team trialling a new front wing in practice at the Japanese Grand Prix, and Senior Race Engineer, Dave Robson, has confirmed that the wing will be tested again in Mexico and that he is looking forward to getting Latifi’s first impressions of the new upgrades.

“Having brought a new front wing concept to Suzuka, we will spend time on Friday completing further testing and data gathering.” added Robson.

“Nicholas Latifi joins us this weekend for the first of three consecutive FP1 sessions.

“Nicholas has done an extremely good job each time he has driven the car this season and we look forward to welcoming him back and getting his impression of the latest upgrades.