Photo: Zak Mauger / FIA Formula 2
Nicholas Latifi will continue to race for the DAMS Formula 2 team for a fourth season in 2019.
The Canadian came fifth in the F2 standings in 2017 before finishing ninth this season following the introduction of the championship’s new car.
After a stint with Force India, Latifi recently switched to Williams for further Formula 1 track time next year, and?DAMS boss Jean-Paul Driot wants to help him follow his 2018 team-mate Alex Albon into a race drive.
?It is very satisfying to welcome back Nicholas for another year,” said Driot.
“He recovered from illness at the start of last season and his performances in the second half showed he was capable of fighting for the title.
“As we have done in the past, our objective is to fight for both titles.
“He already has one foot in F1 and we will do everything to help Nicholas into a full-time drive, as we did with Albon.”
Latifi, who has so far won two sprint races in F2, added: ?My aims for this year are quite clear, I want to compete for the drivers? title and help DAMS win the teams? championship.
“The potential has been there for us to fight at the front, but we had some bad luck early on in 2018.
“My best performances came in the last few rounds, so hopefully we can continue that strong form into 2019.
“Driving for DAMS has given me the opportunity to showcase my abilities, which has helped in securing my F1 role with Williams, and I?m excited to be returning for another season.”
Former Carlin driver Sergio Sette Camara is expected to be Latifi’s team-mate next season after joining DAMS for the recent post-season test in Abu Dhabi.