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Williams F1 launch: Robert Kubica reveals 2018 driving outings

Robert Kubica will drive in three Formula 1 first practice sessions this year, in Spain, Austria and Abu Dhabi, as part of his reserve and development role with Williams.

The Pole had pushed for a race seat alongside Lance Stroll but lost out to 22-year-old Sergey Sirotkin and ultimately decided to take a supporting role.

As part of the arrangement, Kubica will drive in Barcelona pre-season testing, in-season tests and three first practice sessions in 2018.

"I will do three FP1s," said Kubica, speaking at the launch of Williams' 2018 campaign. "I will start in Barcelona, then I think Austria and then another one [Abu Dhabi].

"I will do some pre-season testing and in-season testing.

"It was important to have the chance to drive. Currently the regulations are such that driving is limited.

"The simulator plays an important role, as I am part of this project it is important to build up a link between this tool and the real world."

Kubica said his primary focus will be to support the team but there would be a limit on what he can do in terms of mentoring the drivers.

"Of course they do their job and I will try to support, but I will never be in the position to teach them unless they think I can help them," he said.

"The most important thing is to help the team and support the team - otherwise I wouldn't be here.

"Once you are in the same boat you work in same direction.

"Once I knew I would do this job I agreed it is my job to help them and support."

Kubica said last year that 90% of his F1 driving ability was the same as before he suffered life-threatening injuries in a rally crash in 2011.

When asked by Autosport what he needs to do to prove he has what it takes to secure a race drive, he said: "The clock is running, I am 33.

"Last winter there was a lot of talk around and a lot of people put ideas and evaluations of myself but the only one who understands my limitations and what I need is myself.

"First of all, there is a role that I am covering this year and I have to make sure I am able to deliver and able to help the team to achieve the targets or the results we want and then we will see what the future will bring.

"Twelve months ago nobody would say I would have different tests in 2017. So who knows what the future will bring."

He added: "I would prefer to be here as a race driver but if you look at it from a different perspective and where I was 12 months ago, nobody thought I would be in a position to drive an F1 car.

"I am more convinced now than ever that I am able to drive an F1 car even though the limitations are quite big."

Zdroj: autosport.com