Robert Kubica to Partner Kimi Raikkonen for F1’s 70th Anniversary Grand Prix Free Practice

Former F1 driver Robert Kubica will replace Antonio Giovinazzi in FP1 for the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix. Kubica, who is the Swiss team’s reserve driver, gets a third opportunity behind the wheel of the C39.

Kubica previously competed in two free practice sessions at the Hungarian and Styrian Grands Prix.

Considering their current struggles, Alfa Romeo would be wise to bank on Kubica and Kimi Raikkonen’s experience in developing the car.

The Swiss outfit has slipped down the midfield ladder and is dangerously close to losing out to the backmarkers, Williams.

Driving an F1 car is always special: Robert Kubica

Kubica expressed delight at his free practice opportunity. However, the Polish driver asserted that he remained focused on developing the car.

“I am happy to get back behind the wheel in this busy early part of the season. Driving an F1 car is always special, but even more so in a place like Silverstone.

“The track has so much history and it’s one that tests both driver and machine: it’s one of the great venues of motorsport and driving around here, even without the fans, gives you such a buzz.

“My main focus, however, remains towards helping the team develop the car,” said Robert, as quoted by Alfa Romeo on its website.

“I am pleased to see Robert returning to the car this weekend. His feedback has been of the highest quality in his previous outings. And his work is proving really valuable for the team.

“Both when he is in the car and during our engineering meetings,” said team boss Fred Vasseur.

“Robert knows Silverstone inside out and I am sure he will help us make a step forward as the season progresses.”

Alfa Romeo has had a difficult start to the season with an uncompetitive car and unforced errors by its drivers. Kimi Raikkonen, who’s made it clear that he will stop if he’s no longer motivated, has endured a horrid first few races.

Most recently, at the British GP, Raikkonen completely lost it at his race engineer over a botched pitstop call. Raikkonen’s race ultimately unraveled after his front wing disintegrated, leaving him plumb last.

Hopefully, the team can turn things around when F1 returns to Silverstone on August 9 for the 70th Anniversary GP.

Source: Alfa Romeo