Styrian Grand Prix 2021: Robert Kubica to Replace Raikkonen for FP1 in Austria

Alfa Romeo test driver Robert Kubica will drive the car at FP1 in Austria. This will be the first time this season that the Polish driver will get his hands on Alfa Romeo C41.

Kubica will take the reins from Kimi Raikkonen in the first practice at Spielberg. The reserve drivers in F1 provide valuable insights to the team and also give the drivers valuable experience in the car.

The experience of Robert Kubica is proving to be a valuable asset for the Swiss team. Kubica was one of the most talented and rapid drivers on the grid in the late 2000s.

He won the 2008 Canadian Grand Prix to lead the championship at that point. Kubica finished 4th in the championship. Robert Kubica came back to F1 in 2019 after a horrifying rally car crash in 2011. He suffered a near-fatal injury because of the crash.

Watch Story: 5 F1 Crashes Which Stunned the World

I am looking forward to being back in the car next week: Kubica

According to the official website of Sauber, both Kubica and Alfa Romeo announced the news of his return to the Styrian Grand Prix.

Alfa Romeo Team Principal Fredric Vasseur stated their delight when he announced the news of Kubica driving in FP1,

“Robert is an important resource for our team and to have him in the car in Austria will be very valuable, especially as we will be racing at the same venue two weeks in a row.

“Robert has done a really good job in his first outings this year and we are looking forward to working with him again as he helps the team in its progression,” said Vasseur.

“I am looking forward to being back in the car next week. The team has made some big steps forward, especially lately, and you can sense the confidence in the whole squad.

“I know how important it is to keep the momentum going and I am ready to play my part to make sure the two weekends in Austria are as successful as they can be,” said Kubica.

Read more: Where does Kimi Raikkonen live?

Can Kubica get back in F1?

Robert Kubica made a comeback in F1 in the 2020 season with Williams. He struggled throughout the entire season as he finished behind his teammate George Russell almost consistently.

He managed to score the only points for Williams at the 2019 German Grand Prix. Although his return to F1 seems bleak as there are not any seats for him in the near future.

What do you think? Will Kubica get back in F1? Comment below to let us know.