Latifi reacts to rumours of replacing Kubica

Nicholas Latifi says he has paid no mind to reports linking him with an ascension to Williams' race team at the expense of Robert Kubica. Recent reports from Latifi's native Canada suggested that Kubica may fail to see out the 2019 season, having begun in difficult form.

The Pole's return to F1 was as heart-warming as any thread ahead of the 2019 campaign, Kubica making his comeback eight years after suffering life-threatening injuries in a rally crash.

However, Kubica has seen the chequered flag last at all five races this season, as well as being outqualified by rookie team-mate George Russell each time.

Le Journal de Montreal claimed last week that Latifi, currently Williams' third driver, could step up in the coming weeks, with the Canadian taking testing duties on both days of the Barcelona event this week further fuelling the speculation.

However, Latifi said: "Of course my goal is to get into Formula 1. But my programme this year is focused on Formula 2. That is my priority.

F1 Gossip: Kubica already linked with Williams departureRead more

"I have to concentrate on maintaining my current form there and winning the championship. If I do that, I think I will find myself in a good position to go to Formula 1 next year."

Focusing on F2 is certainly working for Latifi this year. He leads the drivers' championship by 26 points after taking victory in three of the first six races of the season.

The last five champions at F2 level, previously GP2, have debuted in F1 the following year – including Williams' Russell.

However, Latifi is not certain that he will be on the F1 grid in 2020.

"Honestly, not yet," said Latifi. "The season has just begun and a lot can happen.

"But if you look at the past, and those who won the Formula 2 and GP2 titles, I think most of them found themselves in Formula 1.

"From my point of view, if I win the championship, then my goal is an immediate transition to Formula 1."

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