First filed 6 February.
News has come through that Lotus Renault GP driver Robert Kubica was injured in a rally accident earlier today.
Internet rumour has detailed varying degrees of injury for 26-year-old Kubica and while we don’t have any confirmed details it is known he is currently under observation in hospital and we believe he is conscious. It’s also understood his injuries are not life threatening.
Kubica was driving a Skoda Fabia S2000 car at the Ronde di Andora rally, near Genoa. It is being reported that Kubica crashed into a church wall. His co-driver was not injured.
An official statement from Lotus Renault GP can be read below. Out thoughts are with Kubica and when we hear more we will let you know.
UPDATE #1: BBC are reporting Kubica has suffered fractures to his right arm and right leg.
UPDATE #2 (1am 7 Feb): A new statement from Lotus Renault GP has been added below which confirms Kubica has multiple fractures to his right arm, leg and hand. Here’s best wishes to Robert for a speedy recovery. It now looks very likely that Bruno Senna will be racing for the team in Bahrain, and possibly beyond.
UPDATE #3 (8am 7 Feb): Video of an Italian TV news report has been added at the end of this article. Word overnight on BBC radio’s World Service was that surgeon’s were hoping to “restore the functionality” of Robert’s hand. A new update from Lotus Renault GP is expected soon. However, it is believed Kubica’s long-term racing career is under threat.
UPDATE #4 (9:30am 7 Feb): Autosport are reporting that Kubica is now expected to be sidelined for the entire 2011 Formula One season. Doctors managed to save his right hand overnight after there were fears it would need to be amputated. It’s expected it will take a week to see if the surgery is a success and, if it is, Kubica could need up to 12 months to fully recover. You can see video of Robert Kubica’s surgeon at the end of this article.
UPDATE #5 (10:45am 7 Feb): A new statement from Lotus Renault GP can be read below. Two teams of doctors spent a total of seven hours reconstructing Kubica’s right forearm which was cut in two places.
[Pic: Pixelrallye | Thanks to Simon for the tip]
