Reigning FIA Formula E World Champion, Nyck de Vries will make his FP1 debut at Barcelona this weekend with Williams.

The Dutchman, who was Mercedes test and reserve driver in 2020 and 2021 and this year fulfils the same role with McLaren, will take to the track in place of Alex Albon, thereby fulfilling one of the two mandated young driver sessions this season.

The 27-year old Dutch driver, the reigning FIA Formula E World Champion, will aid the team's preparation work ahead of Qualifying and the Grand Prix.

"Firstly, I'd really like to thank Williams for the opportunity to run in FP1," said the youngster. "It's great for me to get to know the team and drive the FW44, and also to get myself out on track during a Formula One weekend. Preparation for the test is going well so far and the team have been incredibly supportive of me. I'm very much looking forward to the whole experience in Spain now!"

"We are looking forward to having Nyck in the car for FP1 as it is always good to work with a new driver and get a fresh opinion on the car's strengths and weaknesses," added Dave Robson, the team's Head of Vehicle Performance. "Nyck's experience and professionalism will be crucial on Friday as he will complete some of the key engineering tests in FP1 before he hands the car back to Alex for FP2."

"I'm looking forward to seeing Nyck join the team for FP1," said Sporting Director, Sven Smeets. "As he is a very talented and experienced driver I have no doubt that he'll maximise his time in the FW44 and deliver a strong, capable performance for the team."

2019 Formula 2 champion with ART, de Vries subsequently won the 2020/2021 Formula E title with Mercedes. He is currently 8th in the2021/2022 Formula E championship.