Williams have announced that Zak O’Sullivan will drive for the team in FP1 at 2023 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, plus the post-season rookies test.
O’Sullivan’s latest opportunities came just under 24 hours after he was confirmed to graduate to F2 with ART GP next season, having finished as vice-champion in F3 this season.
The 18 year-old Brit will replace Alex Albon in FP1 at Abu Dhabi in line with F1 regulations which require regular drivers to give up their seat for one FP1 session to a rookie, although Williams filled Logan Sargeant’s requirement in Bahrain due to the American being a rookie driver this year.
“I’m really excited to participate in FP1 at Abu Dhabi,” commented O’Sullivan on his opportunity as he added: “I can’t wait to get behind the wheel of the FW45 for the first time and get some good mileage under my belt.”
O’Sullivan will also participate in the post-season rookies test alongside fellow Williams Academy driver and F2 rival for next season, Franco Colapinto.
Colapinto who finished fourth in F3 has said that he is “extremely grateful” to Williams for “entrusting” him with “the opportunity to drive an F1 car in only my first year in the Academy,” after he too was confirmed to move up to F2 but with MP Motorsport.
The 20 year-old Argentinean added that he is proud to get the chance to drive a F1 car at an official test, as he explained: “I’ve been dreaming of this day since I was a kid and have been working really hard for this.
“To have this chance at the official young driver test is a real honour.”
Colapinto went on to reflect upon his first season with Williams’ Academy, as he concluded: “Being part of the Academy this year has opened my eyes in so many different areas and I feel ready to make this step. I can’t wait.”
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