Paddy Lowe expects 'strong contribution' from Kubica

Williams tech boss Paddy Lowe believes the Grove-based team boasts an 'exciting' driver line-up for 2018 with Lance Stroll, Sergey Sirotkin and reserve driver Robert Kubica.

The British outfit confirmed the 22-year-old Sirotkin, who edged out Kubica and Paul di Resta during Williams' selection process.

Departing from its typical use of at least one experienced driver, Williams may be taking on a risk by betting on its youthful pairing of Sirotkin and Stroll, but Lowe sees exciting prospects ahead.

"We have conducted a rigorous and exhaustive driver evaluation process," says Lowe.

Kubica gets reserve and development role with Williams

"Ultimately, Sergey impressed the team with his driving pace and talent, technical feedback and work ethic, both at the factory and trackside in Abu Dhabi.

"I’m delighted he will be joining the team to partner Lance next season. Lance will be going into his second season with us, after notable achievements in his rookie year.

"We have an exciting line-up for 2018 which we believe will help us to maximise the potential of the FW41."

While Kubica's hopes of a sensational comeback will only be partially fulfilled, Lowe is expecting the Pole's reserve and development status to add great value to Williams' 2018 campaign.

"First and foremost, we’d like to congratulate Robert on what he has achieved so far," says Lowe.

"To overcome his injuries, return to fitness, and drive a Formula One 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."

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.