Kubica: My ultimate goal remains to race again in Formula 1

Robert Kubica has insisted that he still hopes to race again in Formula One now that he has been given a reserve role with Williams, after losing out on a F1 seat in the 2018 season to Sergey Sirotkin, who will race alongside Lance Stroll.

Felipe Massa has been with Williams over the past few years, but officially retired from F1 competition in the summer, meaning that there was an opening for 2018.

Kubica was a promising young driver previously, but was forced to semi-retire after a career-threatening injury during a rally car accident which cost him part of his forearm. He has been working tirelessly to make an incredible comeback in F1, and tested for Williams at various points after the 2017 season ended.

Despite decent showings in the test, he came out second-best to Sirotkin. Kubica still remains hopeful of a return, however.

"I feel in the best physical shape that I have ever been, but it has taken a lot of work to get to where I am now," Kubica said.

"So I'd like to thank Williams for the opportunities they have given me so far, and for putting their faith in me with this appointment. I have enjoyed being back in the Formula 1 paddock over these past few months.

"I now look forward to working with the Williams technical team, both at the factory and at the track, to really help push forward the development of the FW41 and to make a real difference to their 2018 campaign.

"My ultimate goal remains to race again in Formula 1 and this is another important step in that direction: I cannot wait to get started."

Williams' chief technical officer Paddy Lowe has praised Kubica for his conduct during the audition process, and believes the Pole can make a big contribution to the team.

"We'd like to congratulate Robert on what he has achieved so far," said Lowe.

"To overcome his injuries, return to fitness, and drive a Formula 1 car again is a remarkable achievement, and one that few considered possible.

"We anticipate Robert will make a strong technical contribution to the team, using his wealth of experience in track testing, simulator work, and support to the race drivers and engineers at every race.

"He is a driver I have admired for many years and I am personally very happy to be working with him towards our 2018 championship."