Nyck de Vries could potentially replace Lando Norris for McLaren if the latter fails to recover in time
Mercedes reserve driver Nyck de Vries has had a seat fitting with McLaren in case he is needed to replace the unwell Lando Norris in Brazil this weekend. It is already confirmed that de Vries will take part in the practice sessions instead of Norris but the Dutchman’s participation in the main race is not a certainty yet. If Norris cannot recover in time, de Vries will be seen in action both in the Sprint and the main race at the Brazilian GP.
Lando Norris is ill because of food poisoning as per medical reports.In its official statement on social media, McLaren stated: “Lando is feeling unwell with suspected food poisoning, so he will rest in the hotel today. We expect him back at track tomorrow.” Brazil is one of three events this year being held under the “sprint” format, so there is just one practice session before a qualifying session. This implies that Norris needs to be back in the car for that second session in order to take part in the rest of the race weekend.
McLaren have an able replacement in Nyck de Vries if the situation demands
It is expected that Norris will be fit in time for the race but if things do not work out, Dutchman Nyck de Vries will be behind the steering wheel for McLaren in Brazil. Earlier this season, De Vries made his F1 debut at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza for team Williams. He had a weekend to remember at the Italian GP in Monza. Subbed in on Saturday for the sick Alex Albon at Williams, the young Dutchman not only out-qualified his teammate, he scored two points on his F1 race debut after a very impressive drive at Monza.
De Vries recently signed a new contract which Alpha Tauri which will see him represent them as a full-time driver in 2023. The Dutchman will partner Yuki Tsunoda in Gasly’s absence next year, and has already visited the team’s Faenza factory to introduce himself to his future colleagues. He took part in FP1 in Mexico for Mercedes at the last round, and De Vries said he will leave the team “grateful” for the opportunities they have given him.
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