Nicholas Latifi leaves F1 ‘feeling like I wanted to achieve and accomplish more’

Nicholas Latifi has admitted he is leaving Formula 1 with unfinished business – but accepts that is how the sport works.

The Canadian driver spent three years racing for Williams as a perennial backmarker, the high points of his career being scarce during the 61 grand prix weekends he contested.

Only three times did Latifi score points, two of them back-to-back at Hungary and Belgium in 2021, that being the only season when Latifi was racing for a team that did not finish bottom of the Constructors’ standings.

特别是贫困开始后2022 campaign, the writing was on the wall for Latifi and it came as no surprise when news was announced in September that he was being dropped, rookie Logan Sargeant later named as his replacement.

Having finished second in the 2019 Formula 2 Championship to Nyck de Vries with four race wins, Latifi would have expected more from his F1 career – which he hasadmitted is now likely to be over.

But he realises that is simply what can happen in sport and in life.

“I’m very grateful for the three years I’ve had with Williams in Formula 1,” Latifi told reporters after his farewell appearance at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

“I’m leaving the sport feeling like I wanted to achieve and accomplish more, however it doesn’t always work out like that in motorsports.

“Along the way there have been highs and lows with many strong bonds and friendships that I’ll cherish.”

Unfortunately, Latifi was unable to finish his last race at Yas Marina because he was hit from behind by Mick Schumacher on lap 39 and despite struggling on, the team called the 27-year-old in to retire two laps from the end.

“The incident with Mick really put us out and then we suffered an electrical issue that forced us to retire,” said Latifi.

“It’s not how I wanted to end my last one, but it is what it is.”

WilliamsCEO and team principal Jost Capito paid tribute to Latifi upon the driver’s exit.

“I’d like to say a huge thanks to Nicholas for his three years racing with the team,” said the German.

“He’s a much-loved member of the team and will always remain a member of the Williams family – we wish him all the very best of luck for his future.”

Read more:The ten drivers ranked 11-20 in the F1 2022 season