Kubica out-paces Sirotkin in the FW41 on Day Two at Barcelona
Thursday 13 December 2018 16:27, UK
Robert Kubica has called on people to stop talking about his physical "limitations" after he made his return to pre-season testing at Barcelona.
The Pole drove at the Circuit de Catalunya for the first time since the 2010 Spanish GP in his new role as Williams' reserve driver. Despite running in an afternoon session disrupted by snow, Kubica completed 58 laps and set a best time four tenths faster than Sergey Sirotkin, who beat him to the team's race seat.
Kubica's lap of 1:21.495 was also faster than the best of Lance Stroll, the second Williams race driver, produced on the opening day of the test on the same soft tyres.
The fastest times of F1 testing so far
Kubica's return to a full-time F1 role represents a remarkable sporting story given he sustained a partially severed right arm in a 2011 rallying accident.
Speaking on Tuesday night's edition of Ted's Notebook at 9.15pm on Sky Sports F1, Kubica took the opportunity to dispel what he believes are certain untruths.
"I've been always comfortable [in the car]. It was only media talks that I was not comfortable," he explained.
"If I keep changing [the car] you [the media] will keep saying I have limitations. I think we should stop. If I can jump in the car and do the job that should be enough."
The Pole also feels he opened up too much about his physical condition.
"I have my limitations which I never hide," he said. "The problem is I was too honest with everyone and they keep asking the same questions.
"I'm living a good period, enjoying my role and I'm hoping to give a positive message and not the same story after many years."
