Russell 'really wanted' a team mate like Kubica

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Williams rookie George Russell believes F1 returnee Robert Kubica will represent the perfect benchmark for him in his maiden season of F1 while the Pole's experience will also benefit the team.

After a year as Williams' development driver, Kubica has been awarded a race seat by the British outfit alongside new recruit Russell.

The 34-year-old, who last raced in F1 in 2010 before a rally crash sidetracked his Grand Prix career, was chosen over incumbent Sergey Sirotkin, and Russell believes his team mate he will prove to be an asset to the team and a worthy opponent against which to measure himself.

"I’m really excited to be teammates with Robert," Russell said.

"I think obviously there is no doubt about his natural talent. He’s extremely motivated and has huge knowledge about the car on the technical side, and I think obviously it’s no secret of a tough year for Williams in 2018.

Russell ready to do the business: 'This is my time!'

"I think with his experience and my knowledge of my experience at Mercedes, I think we have a huge amount to bring to the team.

"He’s a fantastic guy off the circuit. He’s extremely knowledgeable on the engineering side, and his speed and talent is unquestionable.

"I really wanted a teammate like Robert to go up against and show what I am capable of."

However, before projecting a successful 2019 season, the onus is on Williams to produce an efficient car, something it miserably failed to do last year.

"I think our targets next season are very clear, and that’s to get Williams back to fighting into the points and at the top of the midfield," added Russell.

“I think we want to be recognised, we want to be putting in good results. If I’m beating my teammate but it’s for last position, there’s no joy or glory for anybody.

"Myself and Robert will be working really hard together, firstly to get the team to where they deserve to be, and then we’ll see how the results are after that."

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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.