BMW’s decision to leave Formula One could open the way for Robert Kubica to replace Luca Badoer as Ferrari’s second driver for the Italian Grand Prix.
Ferrari’s longtime test driver Badoer has qualified last and finished no better than 14th in his first two races since stepping in for the injured Felipe Massa.
Anxious to get a driver that won’t disappoint the home fans in Monza in less than two weeks, Kubica is increasingly looking like an option. BMW announced in July that it will leave the sport after this season and Kubica finished third at Monza in 2006 and 2008.
Kubica’s possible move to Ferrari hinges on whether Massa will return next season or not, according to Tuesday’s Gazzetta dello Sport. Kubica is seeking a full-time drive for next season, and Ferrari also has Kimi Raikkonen under contract.
Ferrari is expected to announce a replacement for Badoer on Wednesday or Thursday.
Massa arrived in Miami on Sunday to undergo further medical checks to determine just how long he may be sidelined after an accident almost cost the Brazilian his life at the Hungarian GP.
Force India driver Giancarlo Fisichella, who finished second to Raikkonen at the Belgian GP on Sunday, and just about every other available Italian driver has been linked with Ferrari, which also has Spanish reserve driver Marc Gene at its disposal.
Fired drivers Sebastien Bourdais and Nelson Piquet Jr. are the only others who have driven this season and could be ready to jump straight into the car. — Sapa-AP