ROBERT KUBICA said today that he can still complete a remarkable sporting comeback despite being overlooked for this year’s Williams drive.

Kubica, the 33-year-old Pole who last competed in Formula One more than seven years ago following a life-threatening rally crash in 2010, tested for Williams in the hope of landing a full-time seat.

But the famous British outfit, which has won 16 championships, have instead opted for Russian rookie Sergey Sirotkin to partner Lance Stroll this term, with Kubica given a reserve and development driver role.

Kubica took part in three tests for Williams — he was slower than Sirotkin in the decisive final shootout in Abu Dhabi last November — and he also drove on a number of occasions for Renault last year.

The French team however, had reservations over the Pole’s fitness — particularly the right arm which he nearly had amputated following his rally crash — and opted to sign Carlos Sainz instead.

But undeterred by Williams’s decision, Kubica remains upbeat that his new role will stand him in good stead to compete once more.

“My ultimate goal remains to race again in Formula One and this is another important step in that direction,” Kubica said. “I cannot wait to get started.

“I have enjoyed being back in the Formula One paddock over these past few months, and I now look forward to working with the Williams technical team.

“I feel in the best physical shape that I have ever been, but it has taken a lot of work to get to where I am now, so I’d like to thank Williams for the opportunities they have given me so far, and for putting their faith in me with this appointment.”