Latifi to get FP1 and pre-season test outing with Force India

Nicholas Latifi will receive a first free practice session outing at the Candian Grand Prix later this year with Force India as part of his role with the Silverstone-based team. The 22-year-old was confirmed as Force India's test driver for the 2018 season earlier this year.

Latifi will also drive the new car at the pre-season test at the Circuit de Catalunya. The FP1 session in Canada will be the first time he will drive at a Grand Prix weekend, and it is understood that he will receive more practice outings later in the season.

"I've never raced or even driven at the track so this will be my first opportunity to experience an amazing circuit," he said. "I'm super excited about driving the car in front of the Canadian fans and I'm sure it will be a highlight of the season.

"I will try and enjoy the moment, but I'm well aware that the priority is simply to work through the practice programme and give the team all the information they need."

As of the upcoming pre-season test, he stated: "I'm really excited to be getting in the car so soon. I will be driving the last day of the first week, which is ideal because it will give me a few more days to observe how the team works and hear the feedback of Esteban [Ocon] and Sergio [Perez]. I know that track time is critical early in the season so my goal is to make sure I give the team the best possible feedback and help with the car development."