Williams recruits Jack Aitken as team's reserve driver

©Williams

ROKiT Williams Racing has snapped up Anglo-Korean hopeful Jack Aitken as its reserve driver for the 2020 F1 season.

Aitken announced on Monday his departure from the Renault F1 team's young driver programme and hinted at an "exciting next step" in his career".

The 24-year-old moves to Williams after a productive season in the FIA Formula 2 Championship where he won three races for Campos Racing and finished fifth in the overall standings.

As Williams' reserve driver, Aitken will imbed with the Grove-based outfit at all races this year and be on hand to replace either of the team's drivers if required.

Aitken will also make his F1 debut in 2020 when he takes part in a yet-to-be announced Friday free practice session, and undertake simulator work for Williams at its factory.

"It is a great honour to join ROKiT Williams Racing as their Reserve Driver for the 2020 season," Aitken commented.

"Williams is a team with strong heritage, and continued longevity, and I’m looking forward to directly contributing to their development through my simulator and testing work."

Claire Williams, deputy team principal said:

"It is obvious from what Jack has achieved so far he is a young driver with a great career ahead of him, and we believe he has the right credentials to reach the top in the sport.

"Jack has proved his ability in FIA Formula 2 and GP3 and we look forward to seeing what he can achieve as the team’s Official Reserve Driver."

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