By securing a very fine ninth place at Monza for Williams F1 after replacing Alex Albon at short notice, Nyck de Vries caused a sensation in the Formula 1 paddock and now seems to have a chance to start in 2023.
Helmut Marko, Red Bull adviser, has admitted that the Dutchman could have his chance at AlphaTauri next season if Pierre Gasly leaves Alpine F1. The 27-year-old driver also carried out a test aboard the French team’s 2021 single-seater in Hungary today.
In Italy, de Vries had also driven the Aston Martin during Friday’s PR1 before finding himself in the Williams on Saturday morning. Silverstone-based team principal Mike Krack hailed the Formula E world champion’s incredible weekend.
“I take my hat off to him for the way he handled the situation,” said the Luxembourg leader.
« He jumped into the Williams and from what I heard he was in the paddock club when we called him. Granted he already knew that car, but how much was that really ? »
« He had less practice than the others but did very well in Alex’s car. Of course the circuit suited his car. We knew the Williams was going to be strong but we had to be up to it. . »
« In the first lap in F1 it’s very tight and much more physical than Formula E for example. So I think he did a very good job. »
If Aston Martin F1 already has its two starting drivers for 2023 with Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, Krack admits that de Vries was also considered by his team.
« Nyck is still on the potential driver list, including ours. He will now be of interest to any team that still has a seat to fill. »
