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Sirotkin joins Williams and Kubica for post-Abu Dhabi test

Williams will run Sergey Sirotkin next week in Abu Dhabi at the team's post-race Pirelli test where Robert Kubica will also drive the team's 2017-spec car.

The 22-year-old Russia, who ran this year in four Friday free practice sessions for Renault, will take to the track in the team's FW40 on the second day of the two-day test while Kubica will run on the morning of the first day, with Lance Stroll taking over in the afternoon.

The Polish driver is the lead contender for Williams' second seat alongside Lance Stroll next year, with Paul di Resta, Pascal Wehrlein and Dany Kvyat also under consideration for the drive.

Kubica deal with Williams not done yet

It's unknown at this stage if Sirotkin's presence behind the wheel of the Williams is a one-off opportunity or if the Russian hopeful is a last-minute addition to the team's short-list for 2018.

German broadcaster RTL GP announced earlier this week that Kubica had signed a two-year contract with Williams, but the British team denied it had concluded a deal with the Pole.

Williams said in a statement yesterday that "conversations are ongoing" with Kubica, with no announcement planned for this weekend.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.