Paul di Resta will stand in for Felipe Massa at Williams for the remainder of the the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend.
Paul di Resta to replace ill Felipe Massa at Williams in Hungary
Massa reportedly fell ill after second practice where he was taken to the circuit medial centre, later being sent to hospital.
The Brazilian driver did take part in final practice, however, had to pull out of the session having only completed 12 laps. Massa then underwent further fitness tests before qualifying and has since been ruled out, promoting Williams’ reserve driver, Paul Di Resta to a full time race seat for the remainder of the weekend.
Di Resta made his Formula 1 debut in 2011 for Force India and drove for the team until 2013, securing a career best finish of fourth place. The Scottish racer has remained off the grid since then, and was confirmed as Williams’ reserve driver at the start of 2016.
Stepping into a 2017 car will be a tough ask for the driver as he has not driven the car once this season. The fact that his first session behind the wheel will be a qualifying session will be a tougher ask. It will be interesting to see how he fairs behind the wheel of the FW40 and if he can deliver under the immense pressure that has been placed on him.
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