Lowe Confirms Kubica Will Substitute In

Paddy Lowe, technical officer at Williams, confirms that Robert Kubica will make his return to F1 this season, if Stroll or Siotkin are unable to race.

Robert Kubica, who hasn’t raced in F1 since 2010 after a serious rallying crash, is currently Williams reserve driver for the 2018 season.

Kubica, 33, took part in pre-season testing but stepped down on some of his driving opportunities to allow regular drivers, Stroll and Sirotkin, to devleope.

Paul di Resta, Williams reserve driver last year entered one race when Felipe Massa was unable to participate.

Paddy Lowe said: “The guy’s at racing weight. Imagine the commitment he’s putting in to be at racing weight. That’s tough life.

“But that’s what he’s doing and that shows the commitment of the guy to support the role we’ve given him.”

Kubica is very pleased to be given the roll of reserve driver but is also humble about the situation.

Robert said: “Everyday you learn something new. In the end of the year, this is guessing but I think will be better - maybe not driver because in the end when I am jumping in the car I have different priorities and so it’s not about fine-tuning and small details - my job is more about getting (the) global picture, more about feedback and trying to find weaker points.

“Approaching the new tracks we have Sergy which has never been in Australia. Also Lance it will be his second time.

“It’s important to give them confidence that the car will do what they want and will be working well in every possible condition.

“Of course it’s not easy to do it, it will for sure require time. But this is I think a fair point and a fair target to achieve.”