Luke Browning to take the wheel for Williams in Barcelona and Austria
It is happening again for Luke Browning. The Williams reserve driver, who has been part of their academy since 2023, is stepping into the FW48 for two high-stakes Free Practice 1 sessions. He will take over Alex Albon’s car for the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix, followed by a turn in Carlos Sainz’s seat at the Austrian Grand Prix.
This is a massive chance for the 24-year-old. After a strong campaign last year where he finished fourth in Formula 2 with Hitech GP—a run highlighted by nine podiums and a Feature Race win at Monza—he has spent this season competing in Super Formula with Team Kondo Racing. Now, he returns to the F1 paddock to fulfill the team's rookie requirements.
Browning is clearly eager, stating, "I can’t wait to get behind the wheel of the FW48 for the first time, and to have two opportunities to experience the car first-hand in the European season makes it even more special." Williams Sporting Director Sven Smeets sees this as a natural step, noting that the young Brit has proven his value through consistent simulator work and on-track performance. Having already logged FP1 time in Bahrain, Mexico, and Abu Dhabi last year, plus a session in Abu Dhabi in 2024, he is ready for the challenge.
