Capito on Latifi: “It was time for a change”

After the announcement, the explanations. Jost Capito gave some answers on the choice of Williams not to retain Nicholas Latifi in 2023. At a press conference on the sidelines of the Singapore Grand Prix, the director of the British team explained the decision of the Grove team. “Nicholas [Latifs] drove for 3 seasons with Williams. We had good times together. We had set ourselves objectives for the performances he had to achieve this season. “Nicky” wasn't happy about not achieving these goals, nor was the team. For both parties, it was time for a change », believes Jost Capito.

Present at Williams since 2020, Nicholas Latifi arrived in the premier category under criticism, he who had never really convinced during his multiple seasons in Formula 2. As a paid pilot, he never managed to prove his worth in F1. Regularly beaten by his successive teammates – George Russell then Alexander albon – the Canadian was losing momentum this season, with numerous accidents and no points scored. He will not continue the adventure with the English team next season.

“Latifi’s performance was impacted by Abu Dhabi 2021”

Jost Capito still defended his pilot, whom he considers disturbed by the accident at Yas Marina last year: “Of course, it’s a long-term process, isn’t it? As I mentioned at Monza, I believe "Nicky's" performance was impacted by the result in Abu Dhabi last year and the circumstances that followed., said Williams' manager. I think his performance wasn't at the level he himself expected and we didn't expect his performance to be like that. And then after three years, I think it's right for the team and the driver to find different opportunities for both. »

Now, the question of the identity of the 2nd driver at Williams arises. Who to replace Latifi: De Vries, Sergeant, or another? “We are in no hurry regarding the 2nd pilot, so we still have time, indicated Jost Capito. Any dates I could give here would be wrong. When the time is right, we will make our choice. » Patience therefore, even if there is no longer any doubt that the announcement will be made depending on the outcome of the discussions between De Vries and Alpha Tauri...

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