The indications are that, at best, Robert Kubica will be out of action for several months following his crash in a rally event in Italy. However, it is possible the injuries he suffered may bring down the curtain on his Formula One career.
After several hours of speculation Renault confirmed he had suffered 'multiple fractures to his right arm, leg and hand' in the incident. He underwent surgery at the Santa Corona Hospital near Genoa, but comments from his agent, Daniele Morelli, raised worries that his career was in the balance.
Early reports all referred to injuries to his hand, and Morelli said that surgeons were 'trying to restore the functions of his right hand,' adding: 'They have already revascularised the limb and repaired the bone structure. Now they have to think about the muscular functions but Robert has strong character and he will make it.'
Morelli's comments suggests his client has suffered a serious hand injury involving the severing of nerves and tendons. If the operation is unsuccessful or only partially works, then he may be left with limited functionality and feeling in his hand. At a time drivers are being asked to press more and more buttons on the steering wheel, this would be very serious.
The fractures will heal, although given Kubica already has titanium bolts in his left arm following an accident in 2003 there may well be complications. But tendon damage is much harder and there is also no means of speeding his recovery.
Even without a detailed update as to his condition, it is now inconceivable Kubica will be ready for the start of the season, and dubious he will fit for anything but the last few months of it. But the real fear is that he may not return at all.
Many drivers have restrictions in their contracts as to what they can do off track in terms of risky sports or hobbies. Renault did not ban Kubica from rallying as being able to continue was a key part of any contract for him. As recently as November, Morelli said the big teams such as 'McLaren, Red Bull, Ferrari or Mercedes wouldn't allow it.' How Renault must be wishing it had been a little more insistent.
http://en.espnf1.com/renault/motorsport ... 40129.html
Μάλλον τέλος ο Ροβέρτος.