Robert Kubica will make his full-fledged return to Formula 1 next year with the Williams team.
It completes an unlikely comeback for Kubica, considered one of the most underrated talents in the sport before a gruesome rally accident in 2011 left him needing seven hours of surgery on a partially severed right hand.
The 33-year-old Pole impressed in a testing role for Williams this past season. Not only did his right arm hold up to the rigors of competition, he was said to be as quick as anyone in their equipment. He will pair with F2 champion George Russell next season.
"Firstly, I would like to thank everyone who has helped me during what was a difficult period of my life over these last few years," Kubica said in a statement. "It has been a challenging journey to make it back to the Formula 1 grid, but what seemed almost impossible is now beginning to feel possible, as I am excited to be able to say that I will be on the Formula 1 grid in 2019.
"For sure, it has been a long road to get to this point, but as that challenge now comes to an end with this announcement, a new challenge begins working with Williams on track. It will not be easy, but with hard work and dedication, both George and myself will work together to try and help the team get in better shape to move further up the grid. This year has been tough, but I have learnt a lot, and I’d like to thank Sir Frank and Claire for this opportunity."
He earned 12 podium finishes in F1 from 2006-10 — claiming his first pole position and victory in 2008.
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