Bachetta makes F1 debut for Williams

Thursday saw recently crowned Formula Two champion Luciano Bachetta get his first taste of Formula One power when he tested for Williams at the UK's Silverstone circuit. Bachetta’s drive - part of his prize for winning the F2 title - also qualified the Briton for the FIA Super License required for F1 competition.

"Today's gone very well for me,” he said afterwards. “I've had a good mix of wet and dry running which has been a perfect way to learn how the car works and adapts. Just to be around a team like Williams is a special experience and I've gained so much from the day.

“I'm still taking it all in and I am sure that it won't be until I go away and reflect that I'll realise quite how brilliant it was. The car is just a pleasure to drive, better than anything I've driven before, so I'd love to have some more experience of Formula One in the future."

The 22-year-old from Romford secured the 2012 F2 crown at the season finale at Monza in Italy last month, having led the championship throughout and collected five race victories and ten podiums on his way to the title.

“My congratulations to Luciano for winning the F2 title, a feat made all the more impressive by the way he achieved it with an unprecedented four consecutive wins at the start of the season,” commented Sir Frank Williams. “No doubt he learnt a lot from today’s experience and it will stand him in good stead for his future career which looks very promising indeed.”