Carlos Sainz Jr. will take to the track for Formula 1 pre-season testing, the next step in his journey with his new team, Williams. But that is not the only new role the driver is taking on this season.

Spanish driver Carlos Sainz has become a director at Formula One’s Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, which acts as a union for the grid’s stars. The Williams driver will take the position vacated by Sebastian Vettel.

Carlos Sainz was named a director of Grand Prix Drivers' Association, the trade union for Formula One drivers. His appointment was announced Sunday. The Spaniard replaces four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel,