Last Updated: 10/09/22 12:06 PM
Alex Albon is being treated in hospital for appendicitis
Alex Albon has been ruled out of the Italian Grand Prix amid treatment for appendicitis and will be replaced for the rest of the weekend at Monza by Nyck de Vries.
Williams said Albon is in “good spirits” despite receiving ongoing treatment in hospital after falling ill on Saturday morning.
De Vries, who is a back-up driver to Lewis Hamilton and George Russell at Mercedes, will make his Formula 1 qualifying and race debut, having previously driven in practice.
“Williams Racing can confirm that, after feeling unwell this morning and seeking medical advice from the FIA and local hospital, Alex Albon is now being treated for appendicitis,” the team said in a statement.
“Following this, we can confirm that the team’s reserve driver Nyck de Vries will drive in Alex’s place for the remainder of the Italian Grand Prix weekend. Alex is in good spirits and the team wishes him a speedy recovery.”
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Shortly after the team’s announcement, Albon himself took to social media to confirm that his treatment will include surgery.
He tweeted: “Tulitis, surgery and no race not what I expected this weekend!”
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Former Formula E and Formula 2 champion De Vries drove at Monza on Friday as Aston Martin allowed him to use one of the two young driver tests for the season in place of Sebastian Vettel.
Nyck de Vries drove in Friday practice for Aston Martin at Monza
Mercedes tried to help the 27-year-old’s quest for a permanent Formula 1 seat, also having Hamilton deputize in practice at the French GP and Williams at the Spanish GP.
With several grid positions still potentially up for grabs next season, Albon’s misfortune provides De Vries with a huge opportunity to underline his credentials.
Watch qualifying live on Sky Sports F1 at 3pm on Saturday.
