Kubica leaves Williams: will Kubica go to DTM in 2020?

E s was the day of the driver announcements in Singapore. At 3 p.m. local time, Haas announced that it would extend the contract with Romain Grosjean for 2020. Five and a half hours later, Robert Kubica also declared himself. “I decided to leave Williams at the end of the season.” This will end the collaboration between the man from Krakow and the traditional English racing team in Abu Dhabi.

Williams and Kubica found each other in 2017 when the team did Poland offered test opportunities. The 2008 GP Canada winner made a name for himself. In 2018, the 90-fold GP participant was promoted to test and replacement driver. The fairy tale was perfect in 2019. Kubica, who seriously injured his right arm in a rally accident in 2011 and has been severely restricted since then, fought for a regular place at Williams.

Slow car and Russell as problems

Kubica has proven to himself and the motorsport world that he is still fast enough for Formula 1 despite the restrictions. Nevertheless, the comeback was disappointing. Because Williams built by far the slowest car, Kubica is crawling around at the south pole of the field.

The FW42 has too little downforce and too much air resistance. Only shortly before the summer break did the traditional racing team manage to catch up with midfield on certain routes. For example in Hungary. “It's a tough season for us,” says Kubica. “Of course we are not satisfied with our performance. It was also a challenge for me to come back after a long time without Formula 1. It hits you all the more when the team is in bad shape. Now I have to do something that will give me the fun of racing back. ”

The slow car is not the only problem. Williams is no longer financially a bed of roses. Shortly before the start of the season, rumors had flown through the paddock that Williams could not even take part in the season opener in Melbourne. What team boss Claire Williams immediately denied. And Williams came to Australia with both cars. Even if with a limited stock of spare parts.

Williams did not reach the level of the competition. Also in terms of stability. Vehicle parts often flew off on curbs. There was also a quick teammate. Kubica went under in direct comparison with the talented George Russell.

The Englishman has a flawless record againsthis teammates. Russell has decided all 14 qualifying duels this year for himself. However, Kubica scored the only World Championship point for Williams in Hockenheim. Due to the subsequent penalty for Alfa Romeo, he moved up to tenth place in the chaos race.

Motorsport Images

Against teammate George Russell, Kubica looked old this season.

Latifi favorite on Williams cockpit

Remaining in Formula 1 seems to be practically impossible. There are hardly any cockpits available. Williams could stock up on Formula 2 driver Nicholas Latifi, who would bring a few million. “I would like to stay in Formula 1. But not at any price, 'says Kubica, who points out that it was his decision to leave Williams.

The team also confirmed this in a press release:' Robert was an important team member. We want to thank him for his hard work and we respect his decision, ”explains Claire Williams.

There are increasing signs that Kubica has the DTM in mind for 2020. The Krakow, who started his Formula 1 career in 2006 at BMW-Sauber and drove for Renault in 2010, does not want to comment on it. 'At the moment I can't say anything about it.'

Mercedes

Kubica already completed test drives in a DTM racer for Mercedes in 2013.

Manufacturer master Audi has already confirmed discussions with Kubica's management. Kubica could dock with the customer team WRT. DTM bossIn any case, Gerhard Berger would be happy. The Austrian dreams of well-known names in order to promote the DTM.

If Kubica's second Formula 1 career is actually over after a year, the majority in the paddock would regret it. Kubica is a man of clear words. “And one of the most talented drivers I know,” enthuses world champion Lewis Hamilton. 'His strength and dedication is remarkable - especially after his accident.'