Robert Kubica has denied speculation that there is a degree of animosity between he and teammate Vitaly Petrov

It's understood that the Russian is not a great mixer within the team, failing to truly integrate, and that this has caused him problems, as has his reluctance to establish a base in the UK.

However, when asked about his relationship with Petrov, Kubica was giving little away, other than to admit that his rookie season had been difficult for the Russian.

"I think Vitaly will have less problems this year than he had last year," said the Pole, "it was normal for a rookie driver joining the team that it won't be easy. He's definitely starting from a better level, having an easier task than it was for him last year.

"I'm happy to have Vitaly as a team mate and that's it," he continued. However, when asked about claims that he had refused to mix with the Russian, he was giving little away. "I don't want to get too much into the details," he said. "If he says this, he has his point of view. I have a bit of a different point of view.

"To be honest, I'm happy because I have learnt something from him even without knowing or wanting it... how not to go off the track," he said with a broad grin, before quickly adding: "No, I'm joking."

Team Principal Eric Boullier concurred, saying: "The funny thing is that Vitaly as well is not very talkative. It is just two cultures, and they are basically the same. Both of them are very secret, not very talkative and Robert is clearly having his own life and he knows where he wants to go, and it is up to Vitaly to have the contact with him.

"This is one of the many subjects that we have discussed with him," the Frenchman continued, "that if he wants to deliver he has to find it by himself. Not expect people to give him for free... and it is the same for the relationship he has with Robert."