Robert Kubica in frame for 2019 Williams F1 race drive

Kubica has some backing in place for a potential F1 race seat next year, and it's believed that with other options such as Esteban Ocon not working out for Williams, and an expected title sponsorship deal with Rich Energy going to Haas, the Pole is now top of the team's list to partner George Russell, with a firm offer to race next year.

However, he's also in demand at Ferrari, which will lose the services of both Daniil Kvyat and Antonio Giovinazzi next year, and is keen to have a driver familiar with current F1 cars and tyres to spearhead its simulator programme.

Although he wouldn't elaborate on his options, Kubica says he will make a decision on his future in the next few days, after this weekend's Brazilian Grand Prix.

"I think we are quite close to the decision," Kubica told Autosport. "From my point of view I'm getting there, and I have a deadline very soon, in my head.

"It will be within a few days, what I decide, what I want to do, and what I think is the best direction for me.

"I'm in a comfortable situation, and this is what I've been saying for a few weeks.

"I will be doing something which in one way or another attracts me, and gives me the confidence that I will be doing something that I enjoy.

"But a lot depends on making my mind up on what direction I want to go, if I want to race, and where to race, if I can combine things, and if I can focus only on one thing, as I did this year."

Pressed on whether a long-term arrangement such as a Ferrari deal would be his priority he said: "Maybe the wish of driving and coming back to F1 is bigger than the wish of a long project. I leave a lot to personal conclusions.

"When I'm saying I want to make my mind up, it's also about what I want to do with my future.

"I'm not looking only for the next three months, or one year, but what's is my feeling.

"It's not because once I decide everybody is waiting with open arms, there are also things to look at and see how it can work.

"I have a long flight back from from Brazil, it's good to have last thoughts, and then we'll see."

Kubica admitted that a relationship with Ferrari would have obvious appeal.

"I said always when you are a small child you dream about F1, then once you are established as an F1 driver there are two things, either you win championships, or you drive in the red car," he added.

"I cannot look behind, I have to look forward. It could be very interesting, but I have to see more about working with a top team on a high level.

"It would be a good opportunity from a professional point of view, but also from an emotional point of view it can be something interesting."