Steiner left 'speechless' by Kubica comeback efforts

Haas team boss Guenther Steiner admits he been astonished by Robert Kubica's successful efforts to return to Formula 1's grid.

The 34-year-old driver has been included in Williams' 2019 lineup alongside reigning F2 champion George Russell, realizing a dream few people actually believed was possible when the Pole set his sights on returning to F1.

Kubica's rally crash in the winter of 2011 and the physical injuries he sustained cut short a promising career at the pinnacle of motorsport.

But his passion and massive determination convinced the one-time Grand Prix winner to try and overcome his limitations, and fight to achieve an amazing comeback.

Sebastian Vettel has 'mixed feelings' about Kubica's return

As far as Steiner is concerned, Kubica's accomplishment is nothing short of amazing.

"It's great to see that he never gave up, that he always kept believing, because I think most people would have stopped if they had been in his place," Steiner told F1only.

"The determination he had to return to Formula 1 left me speechless, and I wish him all the best for his return, but not too much, so that he will not be in front of us either."

While Kubica has performed well in testing this year with Williams, it remains to be seen just how consistent and fast he can be. Steiner however, is a believer.

"We all know what he was capable of before his accident, it was not for nothing that he had signed a pre-contract with Ferrari. If all goes well, I'm sure Robert will make the difference at Williams."

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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.