F1 news: Nicholas Latifi did an 'excellent job' in 'tricky conditions' to score points in Japan
- Heinrich Griessel
- 12 October 2022
Williams F1 driver Nicholas Latifi impressed the team's head of vehicle performance by scoring points at the Japanese Grand Prix.
As one of the first drivers to switch to intermediate tyres, after the race restarted, Latifi was able to climb into the top 10.
He was up to eighth position but eventually dropped to ninth as George Russell managed to pass him.
He did, however, succeed in keeping McLaren's Lando Norris at bay for the final laps of the race at Suzuka to finish ninth and claim two points for Williams.
The team's head of vehicle performance, Dave Robson, enjoyed watching the Canadian driver battle his way to a points-scoring position in difficult conditions.
"Today was hectic and enjoyable, and in the end provided a very good race," said Robson. "Track conditions were fine at the initial race start but the visibility made it incredibly difficult for all but the leader.
"Both Alex and Nicholas had excellent starts and made places initially but were unable to capitalise fully due to poor visibility at T1. Alex was unfortunate to suffer contact from the Haas, which damaged the radiator and forced him to retire.
"When the race finally restarted, Nicky did an excellent job in tricky conditions. He was part of the decision to make the early switch to intermediates and this paid handsomely as he soon got into a potential points scoring position.
"Although Russell was able to overtake, Nicky had the measure of the McLarens and managed his car really well to collect his first points of the season."
