It’s Different to What My Role Was Planned to be – Kubica

Kubica joined the team as reserve and development driver this year. Since then, he has played an active role for Williams both behind the wheel and with his off-track contributions.

However, he feels that he could have had an even bigger impact if Williams had a stronger car.

“In our situation, we are working on trying to solve things, so it’s a bit different to what my role was planned to be,” Kubica said.

“In the situation where the car ran smoothly, I would have a big impact.

“On the other hand, I am also working on the simulator and trying to improve this area of the team. And I’m taking part in the technical meetings and stuff like this.

“It’s quite an open-minded position and that’s what I think is satisfactory for myself and for the team.”

The 33-year-old drove on five test days for Williams this year. He even participated in Friday practice sessions in Spain and Austria. He confessed that he did not expect to enjoy his current role as much as he has.

“It has been a good surprise for me,” he said.

“I thought it would be more difficult to watch the others racing but, because this opportunity gives me a chance to live my passion, not as a race driver but with an active role in the team, it is rewarding.

“I don’t see it as a negative that I’m not racing and the others are.”

Kubica insisted that he nothing to prove with regard to his pace even though he still desires to make a racing return to F1.

Now, Kubica too, has been dragged into the 2019 silly season debate. He has been linked to a possible move to Force India team. The latter is expected to run current Williams driver Lance Stroll next year following its takeover.

“Someone might say ‘well, you are targeting becoming a race driver’ so you have to show everything,” said Kubica.

“That’s true but if someone wants to believe I’m good enough, they’ll believe it and if someone doesn’t want to they’ll find a hundred excuses.

“What is important is confidence in myself when I’m behind the wheel. I don’t see the necessity of a big push.”