Luke Browning set for F1 debut in Abu Dhabi while fighting for F2 championship
Williams Racing has confirmed that British driver Luke Browning will step into an F1 car during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend, taking part in both FP1 and the post-season young driver test.
Browning, just 22, is currently third in the Formula 2 championship and still has a shot at the title heading into the season finale.
He’ll slide into Alexander Albon‘s FW47 for the first practice session at Yas Marina Circuit.
“It’s going to be an unforgettable weekend in Abu Dhabi fighting for the Formula 2 title while getting back behind the wheel of the FW47, and it’s a challenge I’m going to relish,” Browning said after the announcement.
The young Brit isn’t hiding his excitement about the opportunity.
“The Young Driver Test will give me a final opportunity to help the team prepare for 2026 and I’m looking forward to being part of a Formula 1 weekend for the last time this season. Thank you to everyone at the Driver Academy and Williams for the trust once again.”
Williams’ Sporting Director Sven Smeets has been impressed with Browning’s development throughout the season.
“Luke’s development continues to impress us, and we are looking forward to closing the season with him behind the wheel of the FW47,” Smeets explained.
The team sees these opportunities as crucial for nurturing their young talent.
“We have an incredibly talented group of drivers in the Williams Racing Driver Academy, and it’s important for us to give them the opportunity to progress as they move up the ladder.”
“These final sessions of the season will give Luke another valuable chance to learn from Alex and Carlos, the wider team, and further embed with our trackside operation as he looks towards a bright future.”
## Red Bull junior Tsolov joins F2 grid for season finale
Changes are also coming to the Formula 2 grid ahead of the Abu Dhabi season finale.
Red Bull Junior Programme driver Nikola Tsolov will make his F2 debut in the last two rounds alongside Arvid Lindblad.
Lindblad’s F1 future for next year is still under Red Bull’s final review, adding extra pressure on the young driver to perform.
Tsolov steps into the seat after an impressive Formula 3 campaign where he finished second behind champion Rafael Camara.
He’ll replace Pepe MartÃ, who’s moving to Formula E next year.
The Bulgarian teenager sees this as a huge opportunity to show Red Bull what he can do against tougher competition.
## Stay updated on all the latest F1 news
Want to stay on top of everything happening in the F1 paddock? GPblog’s F1 Paddock Update video is exactly what you need. Subscribe to GPblog’s YouTube channel and turn on notifications so you never miss the latest episode.
