Formula 2 race winner Victor Martins drives towards Williams this Friday opening practice session for Barcelona’s Spanish Grand Prix.
The French will take over Alex Albon’s FW47 for an hour-long session in Barcelona.
The outing marks Martins’ first Grand Prix appearance, joining Williams Racing Academy at the beginning of April after splitting with previous backer Alpine at the end of the 2024 season.
Williams Hand F1 Spanish Grand Prix Chance to become a rookie
He had already gained experience with Williams Formula 1 machinery as part of a TPC (previous car test) operated at Monza last month.
“I’m very pleased to be able to take the wheels of the FW47 for the first time in Barcelona,” Victor shared following the announcement.
“Driving for a team can be an incredible experience. I work hard to maximize my time in the car and prepare as much as possible to prepare myself and my team to be a valuable session.
“I am extremely grateful to everyone at Atlassian Williams Race for giving me this opportunity. I look forward to enjoying every second!”
Martins is competing for his third season in Formula 2 in ART this year, sitting eighth in the rankings after pole position in Melbourne and podium in Jeddah. The driver’s championship is led by Browning.
Martin’s previous successes in the junior race include Formula 3 and Renault Euro Cup titles.
By giving Barcelona a seating time to the 23-year-old, Williams meets the second of four mandatory rookie FP1 rookie sessions. In the first half of Bahrain, Browning actually drove Carlos Signe’s car.
“We are proud to be Victor in his first Formula 1 session with the Atlassian Williams Race in Barcelona,” said Williams sports director Sven Smeet.
“He continues to demonstrate that he is a talented driver and this session is a significant step forward in his career as part of the academy.
“His participation in our TPC program and simulator work at the glove has prepared him well and we look forward to seeing him in the garage this weekend.”