Kubica retains Alfa role for 2022, ORLEN extends title deal

Henry Valantine
Robert Kubica is interviewed in the paddock. Qatar November 2021.

Alfa Romeo reserve driver Robert Kubica speaks to the media. Qatar November 2021.

Alfa Romeo have confirmed Robert Kubica will stay as their reserve driver in 2022, and their title sponsors have extended their deal with the team.

Polish petrol station operator ORLEN will continue to sponsor the team heading into next year, and 2008 Canadian Grand Prix winner Kubica’s involvement in the team has come as a part of what the company call a “strategic investment” while he partners them, and races for Alfa Romeo.

The Polish driver has taken part in two grands prix this season, subbing in for Kimi Raikkonen when the Finn tested positive for Covid-19, and will continue his reserve duties into a third year with Alfa.

“We are delighted to extend our successful partnership with PKN ORLEN into its third year,” said team principal Fred Vasseur upon the announcement.

“ORLEN are an instantly recognisable brand in a vast and growing market and they have proven a loyal supporter of the team; their presence underlines and reinforces our resolve to be one of the most attractive teams in the sport for global brands.

“Most importantly, we share a commitment to constant improvement, whether on track or in their business, and we are determined to keep growing together.

“Their activation campaign has been of the first order, reaching fans all over Europe and expanding access to the team and the world of Formula 1 and we can’t wait to unveil the next stages in this programme.”

Daniel Obajtek, president of the management board of PKN ORLEN, added: “The competition on the F1 track is broadcast by 99 televisions, and the total audience, according to research carried out by the Nielsen studio, reaches as many as 400 million viewers.

 

“The media equivalent for the ORLEN brand from TV broadcast only until November 2021 amounted to over PLN 550 million [approx. £9.85m]. Therefore, involvement in cooperation with Robert Kubica and the Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN team is a strategic investment for us.

“As a company with an international reach, we have successfully built a common platform for conducting marketing activities in many markets in which we conduct our business.”

Valtteri Bottas and Guanyu Zhou will be the main drivers for Alfa Romeo next season, and Kubica will offer his experience as he deputises within the garage.

 

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