Robert Kubica has been confirmed as Alfa Romeo’s new reserve driver for the 2020 Formula 1 season.
After leaving Williams at the end of last year, the Pole was targeted by Haas and Racing Point for a developmental role given his considerable knowledge and experience.
But the team which gave Kubica his only F1 win in Canada when it was BMW back in 2008 has won the battle for his signature, this after also securing a deal with his sponsor.
“The exciting new partnership with PKN ORLEN is a statement of intent for both parties,” said Alfa Romeo team boss Fred Vasseur.
“It is proof of the ambition of our common project and of our desire to compete at the very top of Formula 1. PKN ORLEN support for excellence finds a perfect partner in our team.
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“We are also delighted to welcome Robert back home and we cannot wait to start working with him,” the Frenchman added.
“He is a driver that needs no introduction: one of the most brilliant in his generation and one who displayed the true meaning of human determination in his fight to return to racing after his rallying accident. His feedback will be invaluable as we continue to push our team towards the front of the grid.
“The partnership between PKN ORLEN and Alfa Romeo Racing, together with the remarkable and never-ending support of Alfa Romeo, means we can create a valuable platform not only for the global promotion of our brands but also for Formula 1 and all automotive fans. We are looking forward to years of success together.”
As for Kubica, the deal signifies a natural next step having first returned to F1 in a similar role with Williams in 2018 as well as a homecoming.
“I am really happy to be starting this new chapter in my career as I join Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN. This team holds a special place in my heart and I am pleased to see some faces still here from my years in Hinwil,” he commented.
“Time and circumstances are obviously different, but I am convinced that I will find the same determination and hunger to succeed. I am looking forward to helping Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN make the next step forward.”