Bahrain will present 'new challenges' for Williams - Kubica

The different nature of the Bahrain International Circuit to Albert Park will offer Williams fresh challenges this weekend, says Robert Kubica.

The Grove squad struggled at the season-opening race, and was far off the pace compared to the rest of the field. 

Both Kubica and teammate George Russell dropped out in Q1 in Melbourne and were lapped multiple times during the race. Kubica is expecting the high temperatures to test the team, and sees tests awaiting in the track layout. 

"Bahrain is a very different track to Australia, so we will face new challenges, including the increased temperature and track layout," Kubica said.

"There are a few things to discover but I know the track pretty well. There is a lot of stop and go so the car has to be very stable under braking and have good traction."

In 2008, Kubica took his one and only career pole position in Bahrain, which he will remember fondly throughout the weekend.

"I have good memories of Bahrain as I got my first and only pole position there in 2008 so I am looking forward to it. It can get very hot, so tyres will be an important topic to understand and how to best cope with them so let’s see how we go."

Russell too is expecting another tough weekend for Williams but is nonetheless excited to be back behind the wheel.

"I am excited to go to Bahrain as it is a track I really like. I am looking forward to getting back behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car for my second Grand Prix.

"Racing in Bahrain is tough as it is a very aggressive circuit, with high tyre wear and temperatures which puts a lot of stress on the cars. All in all, I am ready for the challenge and eager to get back in the drivers’ seat."

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Formula 1 Calendar - 2026

Date
Grand Prix
Circuit
-
Spain
-
Bahrain
-
Bahrain
6 - Mar 8
Australia
13 - Mar 15
China
27 - Mar 29
Japan
10 - Apr 12
Bahrain
17 - Apr 19
Saudi Arabia
1 - May 3
United States of America
22 - May 24
Canada
5 - Jun 7
Monaco
12 - Jun 14
Spain
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Formula 1 Calendar - 2026

Date
Grand Prix & Circuit
6 - Mar 8
Australia Albert Park
13 - Mar 15
27 - Mar 29
10 - Apr 12
17 - Apr 19
Saudi Arabia Jeddah Street Circuit
1 - May 3
United States of America Miami International Autodrome
22 - May 24
5 - Jun 7
Monaco Monte Carlo
12 - Jun 14
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  • Country PL
  • Date of b. Dec 7 1984 (41)
  • Place of b. Krakau, PL
  • Weight 72 kg
  • Length 1.83 m
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