Williams sponsor Orlen wants 'clarification' over Kubica withdrawal in Sochi

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Williams sponsor PKN Orlen wants clarification from the Grove-based outfit on Robert Kubica's deliberate withdrawal from last Sunday's Russian Grand Prix in Sochi.

Kubica was ordered to box shortly after the race had reached its mid-way point, when the Polish driver was running last.

The team's senior race engineer Dave Robson later said that the car had been retired in order to "conserve parts ahead of the intense flyaway races which end the season".

Kubica unhappy with Williams after deliberate DNF in Sochi

Kubica was unimpressed with the decision, claiming he had endured "the worst race weekend of his career".

But the Pole's sponsor, which contributes a healthy budget to the team, was even more unhappy with Williams' initiative and threatened legal action against the British outfit.

PKN Orlen spokesperson Joanna Zakrzewska said on Twitter:

"In connection with the retirement of Robert Kubica from Sunday's Russian Grand Prix Sunday race, we have officially requested a clarification from ROKiT Williams Racing. Based on this, we will be taking legal action to enforce the contractual obligations."

Last month, Kubica announced that he would be leaving Williams at the end of the season, but the 34-year-old has been in talks with Haas about a potential simulator role with the US outfit which could include Orlen's presence on the team's cars in 2020.

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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.