Logan Sargent could sit at Williams in 2023, but it is uncertain when his future will be decided after a successful first FP1 appearance at the United States Grand Prix.
The American had an impressive debut season in Formula 2 but was given a second year in Carlin before changes in the driver market opened up the possibility of a primary promotion. Williams is targeting Oscar Piastre, with Nick de Vries set to start in 2023 and with Nicolas Latifi's departure already announced, Sergeant has emerged as the favorite to replace the Canadian.
Sargent made his FP1 debut at the Tour of the Americas on Friday and said it was a worthwhile ride because it didn't conform to preconceived notions of what 2022 would look like.
"I think the main goal today was to learn as much as possible and I think I got a lot out of that," said Sgt. "Very different from what I expected, but in a good way. There's still a lot of potential to explore and improve, but I think it's a good start and I'm happy with the results."
He completed 21 consecutive laps, which ensured he completed the 100km required for additional Superlicence points, and two such runs would see him finish sixth in the F2 Championship and still retain his licence. So he needs to finish in the top five to gain enough points to earn his superlicence and is currently third but just nine points off sixth.
"To be honest, I'm not sure [when it will be decided in 2023]," he said in the near future. "I need a good Abu Dhabi to secure my Super License and that's the main focus now... to get there and have a good lap to cement myself in the top three of the championship."
Speaking to SpeedCity Broadcasting ahead of the race, Sargent made it clear that he was not looking at his FP1 performance as an audition for next season.
"Really, all I can do is absorb as much information and knowledge as possible and hopefully it can be used to my advantage in the future," he explained. I just have to do my best and whatever fits, fits.”
