Sirotkin looking forward to 'pressure' of Formula One

New Williams recruit Sergey Sirotkin says he is looking forward to the "pressure" of competing in F1 for the first time as he prepares to make his debut in the sport at the Australia Grand Prix this weekend, also claiming it would be a "dream" to win a race.

When Felipe Massa announced his retirement for the end of the 2017 season, Williams were forced into a recruitment drive, with Sirotkin in contention for the seat alongside the likes of former F1 driver Robert Kubica, who was attempting to make a comeback from a career-threatening injury.

The Russian was eventually given the honour, and he remains positive about getting behind the wheel for the first time in F1.

“It’s the Australian Grand Prix – it’s my first race in Formula One, my first race with Williams, and my first race in Australia.

"It’s very exciting and I’m really looking forward to getting there, to start work and to get closer to the lights going out. Looking back at my career, I have always been a racing guy and I’ve always liked the competition, pushing the limits of myself as well as the limits of others.

"To win in this environment is the biggest dream you can imagine, so I’m really looking forward to this challenge, to put more pressure on myself and to deliver. It’s going to be interesting!”

The excitement is clearly at fever pitch within the Williams ranks, as Sirotkin's team-mate Lance Stroll echoed the Russian's statements about looking forward to finally getting on the track in Melbourne - even if the circuit can be tricky at times.

“Australia is always a good Grand Prix and I am looking forward to getting back there. It is the start of the season, there is always a great atmosphere, the fans really get into it and you are right there in Melbourne.

"I shall be excited to turn up. The track itself is bumpy and technical, as well as being narrow, but it is a pleasure to drive and I think we all enjoy going there.”