Robert Kubica will take part in his first FP1 session of the 2021 Formula 1 season in Barcelona with Alfa Romeo, taking over Kimi Raikkonen’s car for the morning outing.
The Alfa Romeo reserve driver will remain in Barcelona following the Spanish Grand Prix weekend, as he will test Pirelli’s 18-inch tyres, which will be introduced in 2022, on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Kubica had five FP1 outings with Alfa Romeo in 2020, the last of which came at the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
“I am looking forward to being in the car again this Friday and next week,” Kubica said.
“Having last driven the C41 in Barcelona in February, I am looking forward to seeing how much the car has progressed since – both in terms of upgrades and in the team’s understanding of the package.
“Driving a Formula 1 car is always a special experience and I’m looking forward to contributing to the team’s effort in the midfield battle. Also, getting to drive the new 18-inch tyres will be a new experience and the first taste of the new world that will come into being next year.”
Alfa Romeo Team Principal Frederic Vasseur added: “It’s great to have Robert back in the car for his first practice session of the season and for the Barcelona test.
“Each time he gets in the car is valuable for us in order to tap into his extensive experience and get another perspective about the C41.
“His technical feedback will also be crucial in his runs with the 2022 tyres. We are in the middle of a very close fight in the midfield and every input from our talented pool of drivers can be the secret weapon that gives us that edge to move forward.”
Last time out at the Portuguese Grand Prix, Alfa Romeo handed Callum Ilott 60 minutes of running during FP1, with the Briton also holding reserve driver duties alongside Kubica.
