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Robert Kubica says that it wasn't easy to say no to a 'very interesting' opportunity in 2019. The Pole will make a full-time return to Formula 1, having been out of action since his life-threatening rally crash in early 2011.
The 33-year-old signed a deal with Williams to race alongside rookie George Russell after spending a year with the Grove squad as its test and development driver. However, it wasn't Kubica's only option for the upcoming season, as it is believed he was offered a simulator role with Ferrari.
"I knew what I would have liked to do, but sometimes things are a bit more complicated than they look from the outside," Kubcia said. "I had some opportunity which I think was very interesting and it was not easy to say no.
"In the end, I am a racing driver - even though I haven't been racing for quite a long time - and this racing mentality has won out. I'm happy to have made this decision because it is a big challenge."
Ferrari is in search of a new simulator driver following Daniil Kvyat and Antonio Giovinazzi's departures to Toro Rosso and Sauber respectively. Kubica believes that adjusting from a testing seat to a full-time role this year will take some time.
"When I'm driving the car I have to keep in mind that I have to give quality information and feedback, and that I'm able to deliver good pace and not risk anything," said Kubica.
"I have to change this approach a bit because now I have to work more for a team, as I was, but now also for myself. I need to focus on different things which might be useful when I am racing. It's a bit of a different approach."
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Replies (7)
Login to replyjuju_hound
Posts: 180
Good luck son, the whole Poland is keeping fingers crossed. Not matter what will happen we all are so proud of you boy.
ajpennypacker
Posts: 2,475
I love that Robert is coming back. It's equally frustrating and shocking to see people annoyed by his age. As if instead of 33 he was 40. In just a few years, the sport changed and 30 is considered "old." I'm not against bringing in young drivers, but I'm definitely against pushing out old ones if they can still perform. Hell look at Alonso. Nobody doubts that with the right car he could fight for championships. Best of luck to Robert, I'll be watching.
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Love it when people talk about these 37 year old or even 40 year olds as if they are basically 80 and have impaired vision and may or may not have minor dementia.
f1ski
Posts: 726
if he has any success it would be a victory for all f1 fans. Verstappen reminds me of a Cubic someone who can will the car to be fast
blade
Posts: 341
C'mon Robert - def the right decision and, driving is always better than simulator - go remind us what you can do.
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
I really root for this guy. Im desperately trying to keep my expectations moderate, yet I cant help but want him to just go in there and show us that despite all of his struggles, he is still what so many saw in him back then.
ajpennypacker
Posts: 2,475
Same here. Obviously my expectations are not based on data, but I anticipate he will own Russell.