Williams Names Luke Browning as Substitute Driver for Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Weekend
Luke Browning is set for an exciting weekend at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The young driver will participate in the first practice session (FP1) with Williams Racing before hitting the track again for the Young Driver Test.
"I’m incredibly grateful for this amazing opportunity," Browning said. "To drive for a team like Williams is a dream come true, and I can’t wait to experience the challenge of driving an F1 car at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix circuit."
"We are excited to welcome Luke to the team for both FP1 and the young driver test in Abu Dhabi," said a Williams Racing statement.
Building on Formula 2 Success
Browning currently competes in Formula 2 for Hitech Grand Prix. His impressive performances in junior categories have earned him recognition as a rising star in motorsport. This upcoming opportunity with Williams marks a significant step in Browning’s career trajectory, offering him invaluable experience at the pinnacle of open-wheel racing.
In part, Browning will replace Logan Sargeant for FP1, allowing the rookie driver a rest before returning for FP2 and the remainder of the weekend’s activities.
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend will see upgraded parts run for the first time by Williams, making the stint in the FW46 even more critical for Browning’s experience and learning. "I’ve had some good results recently, and I’m feeling really confident going into this important weekend," Browning added.
“I’m aiming to learn everything I can from this experience. I’m back in another race seat, but unlike previous F2 races we have new rubber and upgraded components on the car.
"I want to use FP1 to learn as much as I can about the car and build up experience for the test."
It’s a fantastic opportunity for the young Brit to gain valuable experience in the race-weekend environment, setting himself up well for further development in Formula 1 and potentially paving the way for future opportunities.
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When and where will Luke Browning make his Formula 1 practise session debut?
## Williams Gives Young Prodigy Luke Browning a Taste of Formula 1
**(Host):** Welcome back to the show! Joining us today is rising star Luke Browning, who’s about to live out a dream – driving in an official Formula 1 practise session for Williams at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Luke, congratulations! How does it feel?
**(Luke Browning):** Thank you! Honestly, it’s still sinking in. I’m incredibly grateful for this amazing opportunity. To drive for a prestigious team like Williams is a dream come true, and I can’t wait to experience the challenge of driving an F1 car. [[1](https://formulascout.com/luke-browning-to-get-first-williams-f1-running-in-abu-dhabi/126021)]
**(Host):** This is your first time in an F1 car, right? What are your expectations heading into FP1?
**(Luke Browning):** Absolutely. I’m going into this with a learning mindset, soaking up every bit of experience I can. It’s a huge step up from what I’m used to, so my focus is on getting comfortable in the car, understanding how it handles, and working closely with the team.
**(Host):** You’ll also be participating in the Young Driver Test afterward. Does that add to the excitement?
**(Luke Browning):** Definitely! This whole weekend is a fantastic opportunity to showcase what I can do and learn from the best in the business.
**(Host):** We’re all eager to see you out there, Luke. Good luck in Abu Dhabi!
**(Luke Browning):** Thanks so much! I can’t wait.