“On a personal level, my recovery is still very encouraging and my
doctors keep being impressed. I just need more time, as I want to be 100 per
cent ready before I commit to anything driving related.
“Finally, I regret not having been able to provide more news and not
having appeared in the papers, and I thank my friends of the media for
understanding that this has been the best way for me to cope with what has
been the most difficult period of my life.”
Renault added in the same statement that a “test car and dedicated crew”
will remain on standby so that Kubica, who they described as “a member
of the LRGP family in 2012” – his contractual status for next year
remains unclear – can get back into the cockpit as soon as he feels ready.
They added that talks were already ongoing over a contract for 2013.
“Lotus Renault GP remains committed to helping Robert as much as possible
in his recovery process,” the statement said. “A test car is ready
and waiting for him, and a dedicated crew is on stand-by.
“Of course, Robert will remain a member of the LRGP family in 2012 and he
is already, through his management, holding talks about renewing his
contract for the following season.
“Although very disappointed by the news, Lotus Renault GP will start
assessing its options and will evaluate the most suitable candidate to drive
from the first 2012 winter testing session. Once again, all the members of
Lotus Renault GP wish Robert a full and speedy recovery as we say:
“Szybkiego powrotu do zdrowia” – Get well soon our friend.”
All eyes will now turn to Renault’s two race seats for next season with Bruno
Senna and Vitaly Petrov battling to hang on to their drives in the face of
stiff competition from, amongst others, reserve driver and GP2 champion
Romain Grosjean.
Boullier said a decision would on next year’s line-up would be taken as soon
as possible.
“A programme composed of simulator testing, single-seater and F1 track
time is awaiting [Kubica],” Boullier said. “In the meantime, we
will start talking to a few drivers in order to finalise our line-up for
next year as soon as possible.
“Robert will take it step by step and will jump back in his racing car
when he feels it is the right moment to do so. On behalf of all 520 members
of the team, I wish him a speedy recovery.”