Williams Racing announced Saturday that reserve driver Nyck de Vries will make his Formula One debut at the Italian Grand Prix this weekend as he replaces Alex Albon.
In a statement, the team said, “after feeling unwell this morning and seeking medical advice from the FIA and local hospital, Alex Albon is now undergoing treatment for appendicitis.” Albon tweeted that he is having surgery but listed “weight reduction for Singapore” and “cool scars” as positives for the situation.
The 26-year-old looked poised to have a standout weekend after finishing 10th in second practice and 11th in the first thanks to Williams’ straight-line speed.