How a driver merry-go-round could lead to Robert Kubica’s remarkable return to F1

Polish driver Robert Kubica could return to racing in Formula One in a merry-go-round caused by the bankruptcy of Force India

The Pole has not raced in Formula One since 2010, due to a serious injury to his left arm caused by a rallying accident at the first stage of the Ronde di Andora. His left arm was partially severed in the accident, along with various other injuries, which has halted a Formula One career that included a Grand Prix win, 12 podiums, and a contract with Ferrari for the 2012 season. Last year, Kubica took part in a series of in-seasons test with former team Renault, where he showed he could drive with his injured left arm with an adapted steering wheel. It was then believed he would return to Renault but instead ended up at Williams as reserve driver, with Russian Sergey Sirotkin offering more money to Williams for a race seat. After the purchase of Force India by Canadian billionaire Laurence Stroll, it is near-certain that his son - Williams driver Lance Stroll - will move to the team, with long-term Mexican driver Sergio Perez staying put. As Kubica is the reserve driver at Williams, it is expected that he will be promoted into the free race seat. Force India and Mercedes junior driver Esteban Ocon could also fill the void if Stroll leaves. However, it is expected Ocon will move to McLaren, meaning the retiring Fernando Alonso or the struggling Stoffel Vandoorne will finish their seasons early. The driver moves are expected to take place as soon as Force India’s legal troubles are resolved after negotiations with creditors, including a number of Indian banks, with the following race at Monza, Italy, on September 2 the rumoured date.