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Kubica 'ahead of all expectations'

Robert Kubica is 'extremely motivated' to return to Formula One © Getty Images

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• Kubica recovery 'going well'
  

• Drivers:
• Nick Heidfeld
• |
• Robert Kubica

• Teams:
• Renault

Renault team principal Eric Boullier has said that Robert Kubica is progressing well as he recovers from his career-threatening rally accident.

Kubica is still in an Italian hospital after having a fourth round of surgery last weekend, but Boullier says he is impressing doctors with his rate of recovery and mindset.

"The updates are very positive," Boullier told AFP. "He is ahead of schedule on all the forecasts, whether to do with rehabilitation or recovery. He is proving an example to the hospital. The doctors are supporting him. He is extremely motivated, he has the morale, even if it's not rosy every day overall he is maintaining exceptional spirits."

The hospital itself released an official medical bulletin telling the media that they believe it will be another three weeks until Kubica can attempt to walk again, but that his condition "continues to improve".

"There will now be another period of waiting while the multiple fractures heal," the bulletin said. "We are thinking in terms of starting him walking, weight-bearing on both legs, in roughly three weeks."

With Kubica out for this season at least, his replacement Nick Heidfeld is required to lead the Renault team. Having taken over the car at the second pre-season test, Boullier said he is pleased with how the German has fitted in.

"Nick has a very good approach," he is quoted by 20min.ch. "He gets deeply involved and has already convinced the technical team of his value. He has quickly built around himself a climate of confidence."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.