Kubica to replace Alonso

source http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/8293650.stm


Kubica has endured a troubled season after a storming 2008 with BMW Sauber

Renault have confirmed BMW Sauber's Robert Kubica will join them in 2010.

The Pole, 24, will replace the team's two-time world champion Fernando Alonso, who moves to Ferrari.

"I am highly motivated and optimistic that we can be at the front of the grid next year and hopefully fighting for the world title," said Kubica.

Renault team principal Bob Bell added: "He is one of the most naturally talented drivers of his generation and it is great to have him next season."

Kubica shone in 2008, claiming his and the team's first win at the Canadian Grand Prix and going on to finish third in the drivers' championship.

But BMW Sauber struggled to reproduce a competitive car under 2009's specifications and Kubica lies 14th with a best finish of fourth at the Belgian GP.

Regardless of the team's poor form, the highly-rated Pole, who had a year left on his contract, was forced to look for a new drive for 2010 after BMW announced in July they would quit F1 at the end of the season.

Kubica was strongly-linked with Renault and Alonso named him as his preferred successor after announcing his switch to Ferrari.

"Renault has high ambitions and hopes for the future of the team and we feel that Robert can play a big role in fulfilling them," continued Bell.

"We are very excited to have signed Robert, ever since he made his grand prix debut in 2006 he has been on our radar."

Kubica added: "I share with Renault a strong winning mentality and feel comfortable with their friendly and open attitude.

"I am very happy I will be joining them for the 2010 season. I feel I have a special connection with this team because in 2005 I won the World Series by Renault.

"This gave me the chance to test with the team in Barcelona, which led to my debut in Formula 1."

Kubica leaves BMW Sauber, for whom he competed in 55 grands prix, achieving eight podium finishes and collecting 129 championship points, with warm words from his old employers.

"Robert played an important role for us - and certainly we did the same for him," said BMW motorsport director Mario Theissen.

"He never let us down and, with our first pole position in 2008 in Bahrain and first victory the same year in Canada, he set milestones in the history of our team.

"We are grateful for his strong and constant performances and wish him all the best for his future."

Romain Grosjean, who replaced Nelson Piquet Jr, is currently Renault's second driver, though his own position has yet to be confirmed for next year.

Not surprised, but he can say good bye to the WDC for now atleast.

wait this is a bit confusing- I thought renault just got banned from F1 for 2 years

No they got a "suspended ban" which means they are under F1s microscope for 2 years and if they mess up again, they could be banned, i got it messed up too