Kubica allegedly close to Alfa Romeo deal for 2020

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Robert Kubica's involvement in F1 is set to continue, albeit as a development driver, with the former Williams charger allegedly in advanced talks with Alfa Romeo according to a report from RaceFans.net.

Kubica's sensational return to F1 racing with Williams eight years after his devastating rally crash that had left his right severely impaired was the sport's "feel good" story of 2019.

Unfortunately, the depressed form of his team put a damper on Kubica's hopes of reviving his career at the pinnacle of motorsport.

However, the 35-year-old, whose technical feedback is highly rated, is keen on retaining a development and simulator role next season, and both Haas and Racing Point have disclosed their interest in employing Kubica in 2020.

But it appears as a third team, Alfa Romeo Racing, is set to pip its two rivals and secure Kubica's coveted services, which include a budget from the driver's personal sponsor, Polish oil company PKN Orlen.

RaceFans points out that Alfa's current deal with Shell will expire at the end of the year, therefore opening up a potential commercial opportunity for PKN Orlen and a lucrative sponsorship deal for

Kubica is no stranger to Alfa Romeo's Sauber-managed Hinwil factory, having raced for the Swiss outfit under its BMW ownership during his first three seasons in F1.

In addition to his potential F1 duties in 2020, Kubica is also considering taking part in the German DTM series, having recently tested for BMW in Jerez.

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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.