Williams F1 selects Lance Stroll for young driver development program

European Formula 3 race winner Lance Stroll has been selected to join Williams Martini Racing's young driver development program.

According to Williams, the 17-year-old Stroll will be “fully-immersed” in the team during 2016. Stroll is set to do extensive simulator work, a role similar to that of current Williams driver Valtteri Bottas when he first joined the team in 2011.

In addition, the program will include work placements in several departments throughout Williams' factory as well as specific training in the fields of race engineering and marketing.

Claire Williams, Deputy Team Principal, said: "At Williams, we are committed to using our resource and expertise to help talented young drivers to reach their potential. We have a track record of success in this area, having supported Valtteri Bottas in his growth from a development driver role to a race driver and one of the most respected talents in Formula One.”

Commenting on his new appointment, Lance Stroll, added: "I'm really honored to be part of such a great team and one with so much history and success. I cannot wait to start working with Williams and very much hope we can achieve great things together in the coming years.”

Meanwhile, Williams said that Stroll will continue to race in the FIA European Formula 3 Championship in 2016.