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Unsettled by Kubica rumors, Sirotkin wants 'clarity' from Williams

Sergey Sirotkin admits the latest rumors surrounding the identity of Williams' second driver for 2019 have ruffled his feathers, and the Russian now wants clarity on his future.

Reports have emerged that on Thursday, Williams will announce the sensational return to Grand Prix racing in 2019 of Robert Kubica, the 33-year-old Pole filling the Grove-based outfit's second seat alongside George Russell.

That prospect has unsettled Sirotkin who is hoping to build on the hard work he undertook this year with the hope of securing a second year with Williams.

"Right now, sitting here, I want clarity," he told the Russian publication Sport-Express.

"It is very unpleasant to read the latest news. But in Abu Dhabi I will get behind the wheel and all of the problems disappear."

Kubica '90 per cent certain' of 2019 Williams seat

Sirotkin, who has outperformed team mate Lance Stroll in qualifying this season, insists he would not be interested in a testing role next year, should Kubica's nomination come to pass.

"Of course I'm not ready for that," said the 23-year-old.

"I have said repeatedly that I invested much more in this season than people see, and the last thing I want is for the results of my work to go to someone else.

"It is clear that this year we worked for the future, with the results coming next season. If I lose what I worked on, it will be a big disappointment."

As Williams' reserve and development driver, Robert Kubica will make his final FP1 outing of the season in Abu Dhabi.

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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.