F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Kubica gets second race with Alfa Romeo at Monza

Alfa Romeo reserve Robert Kubica will continue to deputize for Kimi Raikkonen at next weekend's Italian Grand Prix as the Finn hasn't been cleared to race after testing positive for Covid last week.

Raikkonen ran in both Friday practice sessions at Zandvoort, but the Iceman's PCR test came back positive early on Saturday morning, which led to Kubica being called up and short notice and taking part in his first F1 race since his Abu Dhabi Grand Prix with Williams in 2019.

However, the 36-year-old Pole had taken part in several free practice sessions with Alfa this season, but a return to the fray on Zandvoort's twisty and very physical layout was a challenge but one in which Kubica acquitted himself well given the circumstances, finishing last Sunday's race P15.

"First of all, I want to share my best wishes for Kimi: I hope he makes a full recovery and returns to the cockpit soon," said Kubica.

"I am looking forward to racing in Monza, an incredible track in which I claimed my first podium, in 2006.

"Unlike Zandvoort, it is a track I know well and this will help, particularly since the Sprint Qualifying weekend format means we will be one practice session short.

"I am happy with what I did in Holland and I can’t wait to help the team out one more time in Monza."

Regarding Raikkonen, Alfa stated that the Finn is still isolating at home. The 41-year-old, who will retire at the end of the season, should be on the grid in Sochi to begin his final series of races in F1.

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Michael Delaney

Recent Posts

Alpine double-podium in Brazil could deliver $30 million windfall

Alpine’s remarkable double podium at the São Paulo Grand Prix with Esteban Ocon and Pierre…

10 hours ago

F1i's Driver Ratings for the 2024 São Paulo GP

Alexander Albon, Williams (Did Not Start): 5.5/10 Alex Albon is definitely going through something of…

12 hours ago

Jos Verstappen rips British media after Brazilian Max fest

Jos Verstappen wasted no time after his son spectacular win at the São Paulo Grand…

13 hours ago

Leclerc left with ‘mixed feelings’ after disappointing Sao Paulo GP

Charles Leclerc's weekend in Sao Paulo was unfortunately a stark contrast to Ferrari's recent triumphs…

15 hours ago

Back when Kimi knew exactly what he was doing

Twelve years ago on this day, Kimi Raikkonen took a popular win at the 2012…

16 hours ago

Mercedes fined for starting grid tyre pressure infringement

The Mercedes team was hit with a fine by the FIA after Sunday’s Sao Paulo…

17 hours ago