• Kubica injury

Kubica targeting 2011 comeback

Robert Kubica: "These things make you stronger" © Getty Images

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In his first interview since his violent crash during an Italian rally last weekend, Robert Kubica has vowed to return to Formula One this season. Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Kubica said he will "come back stronger than before".

He was moved out of intensive care on Thursday and is set to undergo further operations on Friday to treat fractures in his right arm and foot. His recovery time is unknown, but the Pole is confident he will be back at his very best when he returns.

"I don't remember anything about the accident, but these things make you stronger," he said. "I'm sorry to my mother."

He indicated that his recovery was going to plan, but admitted it could be a long process: "The fingers work, the arm as well. But only after working really hard will I know for sure."

Kubica has twice come back from serious crashes in the past, one at the 2007 Canadian Grand Prix - when he returned after just one race - and one in a friend's road car before he reached F1. He said he knew what his recovery would involve and was confident he could use the experience to his advantage.

"I'll be stronger as a driver, in the head," he added. "I have to return this year. My right arm feels better now than when I was hit by a drunk seven years ago."

He also spoke about his passion for rallying.

"It's a tough workout, severe, for F1 it helps with concentration ... whether I'll still do it, we'll see."

He said he was thankful for his long list of visitors from the world of F1.

"It was nice to see Briatore, an exceptional person. Then Alonso, Lopez, Petrov, Alesi, Liuzzi - beautiful, the track never lets you see the true face of the people."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.