Robert Kubica has accepted that the amended format to Formula 1’s race weekends may limit his outings with Alfa Romeo in the 2021 season.
Kubica joined Alfa Romeo as its test and reserve driver for 2020, having relinquished his role as a Williams race driver, and participated in five FP1 sessions, along with test days in Spain and Abu Dhabi.
Formula 1 has tweaked its practice format for 2021, reducing each Friday session from 90 to 60 minutes, while also halving the number of pre-season days from six to three.
Kubica has stayed on in the same position for 2021 but is aware the changes may mean he has to spend more time on the sidelines.
“Well of course with changing the format of the weekend this is making it a bit more complicated and I think we will have to sit down and decide,” said Kubica on his 2021 plans.
“It’s not an easy call. On one side I have been a race driver and I know how important it is to be in the car, as a race driver, so I’m not that keen to take FP1s from our race drivers.
“But I will of course never say no if I get the chance!”
Kubica will combine his Alfa Romeo test duties with a full race programme in the European Le Mans Series.
“I’m able to race, so I can mix two things – driving an F1 car and racing,” he said.
“Watching the others racing, F1 especially, is something which all drivers are dreaming of. I had a chance to race of course in the past so I’m not that young anymore!
“Also my priorities are a bit different, but the passion and the wish of racing, being there on Sunday, is quite high.
“But the reality is I know my place in the team, my position, my role and I try and do the best in my job.”
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