Confirmed: Robert Kubica to drive for Williams in 2019 alongside George Russell
Williams has officially confirmed Robert Kubica will race for the team in 2019, partnering George Russell on the Formula 1 grid.
It will be his first full Grand Prix season since 2010, and signals a remarkable comeback from the life-changing injury he sustained when rallying eight years ago.
Kubica, a Grand Prix winner with BMW Sauber in 2008, had reportedly been approached by Ferrari and Renault for development roles.
“It has been a long road to get to this point,” the 33-year-old said. “But as that challenge now comes to an end with this announcement, a new challenge begins working with Williams on track. It will not be easy, but with hard work and dedication, both George and I will work together to try and help the team get in better shape to move further up the grid.
“This year has been tough, but I have learnt a lot, and I’d like to thank Sir Frank and Claire for this opportunity.
Related: Mark Hughes’ analysis of Kubica’s return
“Being back on the F1 grid next season will be one of the greatest achievements of my life, and I’m sure with hard work and commitment we will be able to help motivate the team to achieve good things together.
“Thank you again to everyone who has supported me and believed in me. I will finally be back on the grid behind the wheel of an F1 car, and I cannot wait to get back racing.”
Claire Williams, deputy team principal, added; “I am delighted to announce that Robert will be stepping up to the role of race driver to partner George in 2019. 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 tenacity to return to F1.
“During this season his commitment to the team and the work he has put in behind the scenes has been unwavering, and he has become an established and much-respected member of the Williams team. He has a level of determination that is remarkable to see, and he truly embodies the Williams fighting spirit.
“Having the consistency of Robert stepping up into this new role will be an important step for us as we look to fight our way back towards the front of the field. I am also excited to have a mixture of youth and experience to lead us into 2019 and we look forward to seeing what they can achieve on track. I would also like to thank Lance and Sergey for their hard work in what has been a challenging season. We wish them all the best for their future careers.”
Lance Stroll’s destination has not yet been announced, but he is expected to join Sergio Pérez at the team his father owns, Force India.
Toro Rosso also has one seat as yet unfilled, with Alex Albon reportedly in talks to switch from Nissan’s Formula E programme.
Exploding suspension, multiple race leaders and plenty of wet weather — the 2010 Chinese Grand Prix had it all, but Jenson Button was the one to conquer the chaos
Fernando Alonso admits that he's not the fastest F1 driver in qualifying, nor the best in the rain. But it's his ability to drive close to the peak in almost any car, in any condition, that keeps him at the sharp end of the grid, says Mark Hughes
F1's first sprint weekend of the season offers more points and an unprecedented glimpse at the competitive order before players have to fix their F1 Fantasy teams. Here are our predictions and line-up tips for the 2024 Chinese Grand Prix
F1 returns to China this weekend with an updated sprint race format. Here's what to watch out for, including driver market moves, a potential Mercedes resurgence and a slippery driving surface