Kubica: Recovery ‘in line with expectations’

Injured Renault driver Robert Kubica has insisted his rehabilitation is progressing as expected, although he refused to speculate on whether he could return to the cockpit this year. Kubica was ruled out of the start of the 2011 season after a serious rallying crash in February. “I am satisfied with how things are proceeding,” said the Pole, responding to questions from fans via his team’s official website. “The improvement is in line with the expectations, and luckily there are no complications that could affect the recovery time. It is still too early to have a clear picture for the timing of my return but the important thing is the final outcome not the hurry.” Asked if he would be back and fighting for the title next season, Kubica, who sustained serious injuries to his right arm in his accident, replied: “Yes to the first question. For your second, we will have to wait until the first test in 2012!” Kubica revealed he still has no memory of the crash on the Ronde di Andora Rally in Italy, but claimed it will have no effect on his driving mindset. “To me, it’s as if it never happened,” he said. “Mentally, no problem at all. Physically, I am still a bit weak but my general condition is quite good. My weight has now returned to its normal level and for a few weeks I’ve been able to walk without help. All in all I feel pretty well.” Despite his injuries, Kubica has been closely following Renault’s 2011 progress. After a recent dip in form, particularly in qualifying, he has every faith that they can fight back in the second half of the season. “I know there are some good updates to come in the forthcoming races and that should help to regain what we had in the initial stages of the season,” he said. “Besides, in Silverstone, the ‘off throttle’ issue clearly affected the competitiveness which we will definitely recover in Germany next week.” Renault lie fifth in the 2011 constructors’ table on 65 points, just three behind fourth-placed rivals Mercedes.