Rising star Charles Leclerc will jump behind the wheel of a Haas F1 car in five free practice sessions this season.

The Ferrari junior driver will make his Formula 1 race weekend debut at the British Grand Prix, where he will take over Esteban Gutierrez’s car for Friday’s opening practice on July 8.

Leclerc will make further appearances in Hungary, Germany, Malaysia and Abu Dhabi rounds of the world championship.

The 18-year-old has been tipped as a future star having finished fourth in the FIA European F3 Championship last year.

He currently leads the GP3 standings after scoring victory on debut in Spain.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to get seat time in a Formula 1 car and I can’t thank Haas F1 Team and Esteban enough,” said Leclerc.

“I’m honoured by the faith Haas F1 Team and Ferrari have in me. This is an important step toward my ultimate goal of becoming a Formula 1 driver.”

Haas F1 boss Gunter Steiner says the team is pleased to offer Leclerc an opportunity to hone his skills.

“Charles Leclerc is highly regarded by Ferrari and his record speaks for itself,” said Steiner.

“We’re happy to provide this opportunity and help develop the next generation of Formula One drivers. Credit also goes to Esteban for sharing his racecar and serving as a mentor to Charles.”