Williams has announced that Alex Lynn will continue as its development driver this season.

Lynn had a positive first season with Williams, undertaking a significant simulator programme and full immersion project with the team, which included an official F1 test in Barcelona.

In his continuing role, he will be given time to focus on mounting a serious title challenge in his second season of GP2, in conjunction with working in the factory to support the development of the team's race cars. He will also take part in various marketing activities for Williams Martini Racing.

"I am really delighted to continue in my Development Driver role with the team this season," said Lynn, "and remain grateful for their on-going support. I relish the opportunity to build on the hard work I put in last year, to continue helping develop the Formula One car and gaining further knowledge of the inner workings of the Williams team from both a technical and human perspective.

"With the team's blessing and support, my main focus this season will be to fight for the GP2 title. I am determined to prove myself worthy of graduating to become a fully-fledged Formula One race driver at some point in the not too distant future."

"After a really encouraging first season with the team, we are pleased to be able to continue working with Alex in 2016," added Deputy Team Principal, Claire Williams. "Alex played an important role in helping develop the team's race cars in 2015, while at the same time demonstrating his talent with a strong debut season in GP2. We're looking forward to seeing him progress this year, both within the team and as he fights for the GP2 title."