Kubica to test with Manor LMP1 squad

Robert Kubica is taking a keen interest in the World Endurance Championship and will test with the Manor LMP1 squad next week.

Kubica is contracted to Williams this season as the team's reserve and test driver, but the Pole could fulfill his 2018 racing ambitions with a WEC involvement with Manor.

The 32-year-old will join the British team at Aragon tomorrow for a three-day test of the Manor's Mecachrome-powered Ginetta LMP1 contender, according to Autosport.

Kubica can help Williams move 'in the right direction' - Stroll

If the evaluation goes to plan, Kubica could join McLaren's Fernando Alonso on the WEC trail this season.

Manor is scheduled to field two LMP1 cars in the 2018/2019 endurance "super season" which will start at Spa in May and conclude a year later at Le Mans.

Manor steps up to LMP1 this year after two seasons in the LMP2 class, and has so far confirmed two drivers for its WEC campaign, British hopeful Oliver Rowland and factory Ginetta driver Charlie Robertson.

In a field predominantly field with privateers, Manor will compete against fellow LMP1 contenders Toyota, Rebellion Racing, SMP, Dragonspeed and ByKolles.

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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.