Williams fields Browning for Italian GP FP1, benching Albon

Key takeaways

• FP1 opportunity for Browning: Luke Browning will replace Alexander Albon in FP1 at the Italian Grand Prix, marking his second official practice appearance of 2026.
• Building F1 experience: The British driver previously ran in FP1 at the Austrian Grand Prix in place of Carlos Sainz, logging 29 laps at the Red Bull Ring.
• Dual racing program: Browning competes full-time in Super Formula while serving as Williams’ official reserve driver in 2026.

Williams has confirmed that reserve driver Luke Browning will drive Alexander Albon’s FW48 in the opening practice session (FP1) for the Italian Grand Prix at Monza. The session gives the 24-year-old British driver his second official Formula 1 practice appearance of the 2026 season.

Browning previously took part in FP1 at the Austrian Grand Prix, replacing Carlos Sainz and logging 29 laps at the Red Bull Ring to finish 18th quickest. He was also scheduled to run in FP1 at the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona, but mechanical issues prevented him from leaving the pit lane.

“I am super excited to get another opportunity to participate in an FP1 session with Williams,” Browning stated. “This is a great chance to complete laps with the FW48, improving our understanding of the car and helping with useful data and feedback. Every session teaches us something new, so I want to make the most of this learning to keep evolving and helping the team improve.”

Browning currently competes full-time in Super Formula for Kondo Racing, holding 12th place in the standings with 21 points after five rounds. In addition to his Super Formula campaign and Williams duties, Browning finished fourth in the 2025 Formula E World Championship.

The news follows a busy stretch across the paddock, as Fernando Alonso noted Aston Martin is “back to square one” with its new Honda power unit, while Mercedes justified team orders at Zandvoort that saved race time for George Russell. Meanwhile, Rafael Câmara drove Ferrari’s SF-25 at Mugello to prepare for a Haas seat evaluation test.

Formula 1 returns from September 4–6 at Monza for the Italian Grand Prix, the 13th round of the 2026 season. GRANDE PRÊMIO provides complete live coverage of all track action. Follow all updates on our news page.

World Championship Standings (Top 5 after Dutch GP)

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

1. Who will Luke Browning replace in FP1 at the Italian Grand Prix?

Luke Browning will replace Alexander Albon in the FW48 for the first practice session at Monza.

2. Which other F1 practice sessions has Luke Browning participated in during 2026?

Browning drove Carlos Sainz’s car in FP1 at the Austrian Grand Prix, completing 29 laps at the Red Bull Ring.

3. What racing series does Luke Browning compete in full-time in 2026?

Browning competes full-time in Japanese Super Formula with Kondo Racing while serving as Williams’ reserve driver.