F1: Nyck De Vries To Stand In For Sick Alex Albon At Italian GP

Nyck De Vries will be standing in for Alex Albon at the Italian GP at Monza as the Williams F1 driver has been suffering from appendicitis. The dutchman who is the Formula E world champion, and the Mercedes reserve driver has impressed so far in the practice sessions at Monza and will soon be in his first F1 qualifying session. Earlier in the weekend, De Vries did FP1 duties for Aston Martin replacing Sebastian Vettel.  De Vries is also a former F2 champion and is a highly rated driver. 

Williams Racing can confirm that after feeling unwell this morning and seeking medical advice from the FIA and local hospital, Alex Albon is now undergoing treatment for appendicitis. Following on from this, we can confirm the team’s reserve driver, Nyck de Vries, will drive in place of Alex for the remainder of the Italian Grand Prix weekend. Alex is in good spirits and the team wish him a speedy recovery,” said the Williams team in a statement.

Albon who returned to F1 after a hiatus of a year also tweeted the news in good humour.  

“Appendicitis, surgery and no racing isn’t what I was expecting this weekend!” said the London-born Thai driver. Negatives: Missing out on what looks like a strong weekend for us; Pain Positives: Weight reduction for Singapore; Cool scars, “said the Thai-born, London native. 

Albon has scored all the four points Williams has scored this weekend as they look strong again at the fast-paced Monza track which is celebrating its centenary. The Williams FW44 showed an affinity for long straights and has been one of the fastest cars in the straight. He should also be able to take advantage of the fact that seven cars are going to be taking grid penalties at the track. 

If De Vries performs well, he could be in the running to take Nicholas Latifi’s seat as he is out of contract next year and with Williams getting the backing of Dorilton capital, it doesn’t need the sponsorship money of Sofina which is run by his father billionaire Michael Latifi.