Williams Martini
Racing is pleased to announce Robert Kubica as its Reserve and Development
Driver for the 2018 Formula One season.
Robert’s return to Formula One included several tests with Williams over the
second half of last year, as well as the Abu Dhabi Pirelli tyre test at the
conclusion of the 2017 season. He will have a particularly active role
within the team this year, including participation in the Barcelona
pre-season testing, in-season testing, and will also take part in a number
of race weekend practice sessions.
Robert’s experience and knowledge will prove invaluable to our technical
group in the development of FW41’s car performance. He will be able to
assist the race drivers and engineers deliver better qualifying and race
performance, and of course, be available to stand-in as the race driver if
required. He will also support the team’s media and sponsorship support
programme.
Robert Kubica said; “I’m extremely happy to be joining the Williams team as
its official Reserve and Development Driver this season. I feel in the best
physical shape that I have ever been, but it has taken a lot of work to get
to where I am now, so I’d like to thank Williams for the opportunities they
have given me so far, and for putting their faith in me with this
appointment. I have enjoyed being back in the Formula One paddock over these
past few months, and I now look forward to working with the Williams
technical team, both at the factory and at the track, to really help push
forward the development of the FW41 and to make a real difference to their
2018 campaign. Having driven both the FW36 and the FW40, I’m looking forward
to seeing how the FW41 measures up on track and working with the team to
ensure we can maximise the performance of the car. My ultimate goal remains
to race again in Formula One and this is another important step in that
direction: I cannot wait to get started.”
Claire Williams, Deputy Team Principal, said: “I am delighted to announce
that Robert will be joining Williams as our Reserve and Development Driver
for the 2018 season. All of us at Williams have been immensely impressed at
what he has achieved, and it is a great credit to his strength of character
and commitment to return to Formula One. We are excited to be continuing our
relationship with Robert and look forward to working with him this coming
season.”
Paddy Lowe, Chief Technical Officer, added: “First and foremost, we’d like
to congratulate Robert on what he has achieved so far. To overcome his
injuries, return to fitness, and drive a Formula One car again is a
remarkable achievement, and one that few considered possible. We anticipate
Robert will make a strong technical contribution to the team, using his
wealth of experience in track testing, simulator work, and support to the
race drivers and engineers at every race. He is a driver I have admired for
many years and I am personally very happy to be working with him towards our
2018 Championship.” |