09/09/2011
NEWS STORY
Robert Kubica's manager, Daniele Morelli, says the Pole could be back behind the wheel as early as next month.
As the Pole continues to make amazing progress following his horrific rally accident in February, Morelli claimed the 26-year-old could begin the next phase of his rehabilitation in October.
"In October we believe he can put a helmet on in order to give a sign of what he can do," he told reporters in Monza. "It's important that he can start to drive. Whether it's in a simulator or in a road car is not really important."
The Pole underwent the last of a series of operations just two weeks ago, his surgeons subsequently revealing their delighted with the result.
"He has started the final phase of his recovery and this is a very important step," said Morelli. "There were several question marks over the outcome, but fortunately it went well and the day after the operation Robert could move his elbow with almost a normal movement. This is a fundamental act for the recovery of all the functions of his right arm.
"Now the recovery is focussed on the strength and day after day Robert is increasing the strength of his right arm, wrist, fingers and all the parts that were affected. We still need nature to do its work but we do not have a concrete obstacle now, it is a matter of time.
"Robert will decide when he feels he has the condition to drive," he added. "He has never lost the feeling in his mind that he would be back."
Indeed, such is Kubica's determination to return to the cockpit, Morelli revealed that the surgeons have told the Pole to slow down his training regimen. "But surely it is better to slow him down rather than the opposite way around," said the Italian. "So am I have to say that we have good news."
Previous reports suggested that Kubica could use Toyota's simulator, however, when contacted by Pitpass, a spokesman for TMC said that no request had been made. That said, it is thought the Pole will begin with a simulator before trying a single-seater.