Browning to replace Albon and Sainz in FP1 in Barcelona and Austria

Williams have confirmed that Reserve Driver and Academy member Luke Browning will take part in two upcoming Formula One free practice sessions, stepping into Alex Albon’s FW48 at the Barcelona‑Catalunya Grand Prix and Carlos Sainz’s FW48 at the Austrian Grand Prix.

For Browning, these outings will be his fourth and fifth FP1 appearances with the team, but crucially his first under the 2026 technical regulations.

With the FW48 representing a fundamentally new generation of machinery, the sessions offer a rare chance to gather first‑hand experience while contributing directly to the team’s mid‑season development programme.

Williams emphasised that Browning’s continued growth — both in the simulator and in competition — made the decision straightforward. Having already logged extensive mileage in previous Williams cars, the team sees these FP1 sessions as a logical continuation of his trajectory.

The team noted that the Barcelona and Spielberg outings will not only accelerate Browning’s adaptation to the new regulations but also fulfil two of Williams’ mandated rookie FP1 sessions for the season.

Browning’s rise has been steady and impressive. After finishing third in FIA Formula 3 in 2024 and fourth in the fiercely competitive FIA Formula 2 Championship in 2025, he was promoted to Reserve Driver for 2026. In that role, he has become a key contributor to the FW48’s development, providing high‑quality simulator data and attending the majority of Grands Prix.

Alongside his F1 duties, Browning is also contesting Super Formula with Team Kondo Racing, currently sitting eighth in the championship in what is widely regarded as the fastest single‑seater series outside Formula One.

The young Briton expressed clear excitement at the opportunity: “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.

"I've been working hard to prepare so that I can make the most of these sessions and help the team plan and prepare for the race weekends ahead. I’m incredibly thankful to everyone at Atlassian Williams F1 Team for their continued trust and support, and I can’t wait to get out on track.”

Sporting Director Sven Smeets underlined Browning’s value to the team and the importance of giving young drivers meaningful track time:

“Luke continues to prove himself as a valuable part of the team, both through his simulator work and his performances on track. Giving him his first opportunity to get behind the wheel of the FW48 across two race weekends is an important step in his development and a natural progression.

"We have a talented group of young drivers in the Williams F1 Team Drivers Academy, and we're pleased to continue providing opportunities like this to support drivers' progression and development.”