Kubica: Alfa Romeo switch like 'coming back home'

Robert Kubica has made his first appearance since joining Alfa Romeo Racing ahead of the 2020 season, saying the move is “like coming back home”.

Kubica signed with Alfa Romeo in a development role earlier this month after making a racing return to Formula 1 last year at Williams after eight years out.

The move marks Kubica’s return to the Hinwil-based operation for whom he made his F1 debut back in 2006, back when the team was known as BMW Sauber.

Kubica raced for Sauber between 2006 and 2009, scoring the only victory in its history at the 2008 Canadian Grand Prix.

In a video posted to Alfa Romeo’s social channels on Friday night, Kubica sent a message to fans looking to the season ahead, as well as confirming he had completed a seat fit in the team’s 2020 car.

“I’m here in Hinwil. It’s kind of like coming back home, to where I started my career in Formula 1 in 2006,” Kubica said.

“[It’s] very nice to be back in this environment. I have seen many people with which I worked in the past.

He is back! #RobertKubica #GetCloser #AlfaRomeoRacingORLEN pic.twitter.com/8S67SMu9pK

— Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN (@alfaromeoracing) January 10, 2020

“They have just [completed a] seat fit into the new car, so I’m looking forward not only to drive the car, but to work with the team, so keep your crossed fingers for Alfa Romeo Racing Orlen.”

Kubica’s move led to Polish sponsor Orlen becoming a title partner for the team.

Kubica is yet to confirm any full-time racing programme in 2020, but has been linked to a drive in DTM after completing a test for BMW in December.