Robert Kubica confirmed for both ERC and WRC
What a comeback story! Citroën Racing and Robert Kubica finally confirmed an extensive programme for this season, the one that will see him tackle both European Rally Championship as well as World Rally Championship rallies over the course of the year. Weapon of choice, Citroën DS3 RRC (Regional Rally Car). Kubica will take part in Rally Islas Canarias, which is part of ERC, and then will switch over to WRC in Portugal.
With this, all speculation about other options are finally put to rest, among other DTM and WTCC, although it is possible that Kubica will run a test or two later on this year. Hopefully, Formula 1 is still his dream, as I believe he still has a lot to show and give in that series, but no doubt he will be serious competitor on ERC and WRC stages.
After almost losing a life in a rally accident, Kubica decided to face his demons and quash his fears by doing even more rallies, as soon as he was able to get behind the wheel of a rally car. What a character, what a driver! I have no doubts who will be my favourite in Rally Portugal!
Welcome to the world of rallying, Robert – one of the true sporting heroes of our generation.
Citroën’s press release follows below.
A few weeks after having competed in two rallies in a C4 WRC, Robert Kubica has decided to pursue his rally driving career in a Citroën DS3 RRC. The Pole’s 2013 programme will get underway at the Rally Islas Canarias – the third round of the FIA European Rally Championship – before he begins his campaign in the WRC2 at Rally de Portugal.
Eagerly awaited by his fans, Robert Kubica’s 2013 racing programme is set to place much greater emphasis on rallying. After having predominantly taken part in national rallies thus far, the Polish driver will compete in the European and World Rally Championships in a Citroën DS3 RRC.
“I weighed up the different options before deciding on this programme,” confirmed the Krakow-born driver. “I kept in touch with Citroën Racing and both sides were keen to continue working together. I’m really pleased now to be able to return to top-level racing. Taking part in Rally Islas Canarias will be an interesting challenge for me. I can’t wait to start racing, but I haven’t set myself any specific target. I still have a lot to learn in rallying and to improve I will need to rack up the miles on the stages.”
Three weeks after competing in the Canaries, Robert Kubica will line up at the start of his first World Championship Rally in Portugal. Entered in the WRC2, he is committed to contesting seven rounds of the 2013 calendar. He may also end up competing in additional European Championship rallies.
Faithfully derived from the DS3 WRC, the RRC version differs from its big sister in that it has more restrictive aerodynamic features and a smaller turbo flange. Following special dispensation granted by the FIA, the Polish driver’s car will have a specifically-designed gearbox, with a paddle installed to the left of the steering wheel.
“I am especially pleased to have Robert Kubica as one of our drivers in 2013,” added Yves Matton, Citroën Racing Team Principal. “Thanks to the support of his partners, we are in the process of putting together a racing programme that will enable him to improve in a car that offers similar handling to a World Rally Car. Robert’s determination is an example to us all and we are proud to associate Citroën Racing’s image with such a resolutely positive individual. I would also like to thank the FIA for supporting us with this arrangement.”
