Williams sign another "great asset" to driver academy

Williams has signed another rising star to its burgeoning driver academy in Oliver Gray.

The 16-year enjoyed a successful debut single-seaters season last year by finishing third in the British F4 championship, claiming two wins and two pole positions in the process with Fortec Motorsports.

Gray has switched to the highly successful Carlin team for this year's assault on the British F4 title, but has also now been signed by Williams to further support his development as a driver.

Describing the move to Williams as "a special day" in his career, Gray added: "It is a team with so much history and success in Formula 1 and I hope to one day be able to add to that.

"As I begin working with the team, my immediate goals are to develop as a driver both on and off the track, as well as focus on my 2022 season. I can’t wait to get started.

"There are lots of people who have played a role in my motorsport career so far and I would like to thank everyone, particularly Sven [Smeets], Jost [Capito] and the team at Williams Racing for their belief in me.”

Smeets, who serves as Williams' sporting director, believes the team has signed a promising prospect in Gray.

"He showed great talent during his karting career and the team was impressed with his debut year in single-seaters," said Smeets.

"We are all looking forward to working with Oliver to best support his progression through the junior motorsport ladder, and I’m confident he will prove a great asset to our team.”

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