Kubica becomes first Pole in F1

We are convinced he has the potential and the will to make the leap into F1 BMW motorsport boss Mario Theissen

The new BMW-Sauber F1 team have completed their line-up for 2006 by naming Robert Kubica as their tester.

Kubica, the reigning Renault World Series champion, will become the first Pole to make it to F1 when he carries out Friday testing duties.

The 21-year-old, who recently tested with Renault, has signed one-year deal with an option for an extension.

"It's a fantastic opportunity for me. I'm going to prove that I have earned it," said Kubica.

"For a young driver like me the three-car rule is a godsend.

In the past, test and replacement drivers were only sent out on test tracks, but I will get to know all 19 grand prix circuits and the ins and outs of a weekend."

BMW are believed to be keen on grooming a young driver to step in to replace Jacques Villeneuve at the end of next season.

The Canadian former world champion has one year left on his contract with the old Sauber team.

BMW initially offered the testing job to Britain's Indianapolis 500 champion Dan Wheldon.

But without the guarantee of a race drive in 2007, he turned it down.