Claire Williams isn’t expecting any fireworks from Paul di Resta after the 31-year-old was thrown in at the deep end as Felipe Massa’s replacement.
Massa suddenly fell ill yesterday, justifying a visit to the local hospital. But his condition did not improve overnight and the Brazilian ended prematurely his run in FP3 this morning.
A veteran of 58 Grands Prix, di Resta hasn’t races since the 2013 Brazilian GP and has never raced a current generation hybrid F1 car, which makes his challenge all the more difficult admits Claire Williams.
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“I’m sure he’s probably fairly nervous,” said Williams.
“But Paul is an experienced driver, and I couldn’t feel happier actually that we have someone of Paul’s calibre and experience.
“Even though he may not have taken part in a race weekend for a couple of years, he’s driven this era’s hybrid cars, he’s driven in our 36, so I have confidence.
“Of course it’s going to be tough. He hasn’t had any practice, and he’s got to get straight into qualifying in an hour’s time.
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“I’m sure there are some nerves there, he hasn’t had much time to get ready, but I have utter confidence in him that if anyone can do this, Paul can.”
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