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Kubica's chances of racing for Williams may get big cash boost

Don't count Robert Kubica out of the running at Williams for 2019 as the Polish driver could soon receive some lavish financial support to help his cause with the Grove-based outfit.

According to Russian daily Sport Express, Polish oil company PKN Orlen could back Kubica to the tune of $10 million in 2019, giving the 33-year-old an opportunity to compete with incumbent Sergey Sirotkin for a race seat at Williams alongside new recruit George Russell.

Kubica won't wait indefinitely on Williams decision for 2019

A spokesperson for PKN Orlen confirmed that a meeting took place earlier this week in Warsaw between Kubica and the oil company's CEO Daniel Obajtek.

"At this stage it is too early to talk about a potential cooperation or any of the details," said the company.

"At the same time we confirm that a meeting between the president of the PKN Orlen management board, Daniel Obajtek, and Robert Kubica, did take place."

There are obviously no guarantees that Kubica's efforts will be successful, but the Pole will give it his best shot.

"I am calm. I can only thank my fans for supporting me," he said.

"Let's hope we'll see each other next year, but it's not like I will stop smiling. I don't know what will happen but I can say I'm working on it," he added.

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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.