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Nasr joins Williams as reserve

ESPN Staff
February 22, 2014 « 'Silly problems' frustrate Ferrari | Rosberg finds another second of pace on final morning »
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Felipe Nasr has signed as Williams' test and reserve driver as part of a deal that will see him drive in five Friday practice sessions over the course of the season.

The Brazilian driver got down to work immediately by taking to the wheel of the FW36 for Saturday's test session in Bahrain and is set to work closely with the team, both at race weekends and the factory. After winning British Formula 3 in 2011, Nasr has spent two years in GP2, but despite finishing fourth in the championship last year did not win a race.

"I'm really happy to be joining the Williams family," he said. "They have a great history in the sport and some of the greatest Brazilian drivers of all time have driven for the team, so it's an honour to join names such as Piquet, Senna and Massa.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for me to make the next step in my career and I can't wait to get behind the wheel of a Formula One car for the first time in Bahrain."

Nasr joins the team alongside new sponsor Banco do Brasil, which has supported him during his career.

Team principal Sir Frank Williams added: "Felipe has a strong track record of success in his career so far and we have been watching him closely for a while. We have a track record at Williams of bringing through new talent and giving them a chance to show what they can do on the world's biggest stage.

"By driving in five FP1 sessions this season, Felipe will have the perfect chance to showcase his skills and I'm confident he will be a strong addition to our driver roster."

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