F1 | Claire Williams defends Sirotkin's choice: “Sergey managed to impress everyone”

Speaking during the presentation of the FW41, Claire Williams has defended her decision to promote Sergey Sirotkin as the starting driver, relegating Robert Kubica to a secondary role as that of third driver. According to the daughter of the great Frank, Sergey will be able to redeem the numerous criticisms that have fallen in recent weeks, competing on equal terms with Lance Stroll and numerous riders on the grid. Furthermore, Kubica's presence will not be taken lightly, given that the Pole will have the task of carrying forward the development of the new car during the next season.

Here are the words of Claire Williams: “An enormous effort was made for the FW41 project and I can't wait for the drivers to take to the track for testing. Last year we had numerous ups and downs, but Stroll managed to recover after a difficult start, showing some important performances. He was very close to Felipe and took the only podium that eluded the three top teams. This year we will be able to count on Sergey's freshness, talent we strongly believe in, and on Robert's experience, a profile that will give us a big hand."

On the choice to promote the Russian he added: "It wasn't easy, but Sergey managed to impress everyone during working hours at the factory. It's fantastic for us to be able to offer him this opportunity. With Robert we will create a nice combination with which we hope to be able to redeem a 2017 full of ups and downs unwanted."

Roberto Valenti