Kubica behind the wheel for two sessions in Barcelona

©WRI2

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Williams reserve driver Robert Kubica will run in two afternoon sessions next week in Barcelona, in the first installment of pre-season testing for Formula 1 teams.

The Grove-based outfit has split its workload between Kubica and full-time drivers Lance Stroll and Sergey Sirotkin.

The Canadian will start Williams' programme with its new FW41 on Monday morning with Sirotkin taking over in the afternoon.

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

The 22-year-old rookie will resume work on Tuesday morning before handing over Williams' new car to Kubica after the lunch break.

Stroll and Kubica will share the day on Wednesday before Stroll and Sirotking conclude the week on Thursday.

The 33-year old Polish driver was in contention for the coveted seat at Williams alongside Stroll but was ultimately discarded in favor of Sirotkin.

As the team's reserve and development driver, Kubica will enjoy three FP1 outings later this year in addition to undertaking simulator and testing work.

With all three Williams drivers running next week at the Circuit de Catalunya, although perhaps not in similar conditions, it will be interesting to see how they compare, or how Kubica fares against the man who beat him to a drive he was almost convinced he had secured.

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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.