Robert Kubica: 2009 F1 World Champion?

Even though 2007 and 2008 have been two of the most competitive seasons in recent times, 2009 is gearing up to be even better.

Numerous rule changes, completely different looking cars and a new scoring system if Bernie gets his way should make for a very exciting year in Formula 1.

The obvious choice for 2009 champion is Lewis Hamilton. Just missing out at his first attempt and just about clinching it last year proves he knows what he's doing in the business.

Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikkonen are sure to be in contention, and in one of my previous articles, I even considered the prospect of a champion called Sebastian Vettel.

But what about Robert Kubica?

Robert has had a very successful 2008 season, scoring numerous podium places and securing his first win at Montreal.

After being comprehensively beaten by Nick Heidfeld in 2007, Kubica fought back and was easily the better driver of the two.

Bear in mind that he was leading the championship at one point and was still mathematically in contention right up until China, and you can see that Robert has the makings of a great driver.

He only made one mistake during last year; spinning off in the rain in Britain. But then again, the majority of the field was facing the wrong way at some point during that race, so he could be forgiven for that one.

Had BMW not decided to focus all of its attention on preparations for the 2009 car, who knows? Maybe Kubica could have been the 2008 world champion. He certainly has the consistency and the speed.

However, this has now given BMW an advantage over McLaren and Ferrari in the development of the car, and with all the new technical and aerodynamic changes for the 2009 season, this should be very much in Robert's favour.

Last year, BMW were the most reliable team, and that's always good. Of course, this could be pointless should Bernie's medal ideas come into force.

As long as the car is good enough, and Robert can consistently challenge for victories, there is a real prospect in Poland getting its first F1 world champion. If he has the car and the talent to beat the opposition, then he has a very good chance.

I can't think of any reasons why he can't do it.