Hamilton: Kubica return is 'exciting' for F1

Lewis Hamilton believes that the miraculous return of Robert Kubica to Formula 1 following a rally car accident seven years ago which nearly cost him his career is 'exciting' for the sport and reckons that the new Williams driver is one of the most talented drivers in motorsport,

Kubica has been with Williams in a reserve driver role, but has not hidden his desire to make a driving return to F1 one at some point. His goal came to fruition on Thursday morning when the team announced he would be replacing Sergey Sirotkin.

Hamilton has praised the Pole as impressive behind the wheel, and also admitted his relief that there was another older driver on the grid!

"Is Robert older than me? Perfect! So I'm happy he's coming back cos Fernando's leaving I was going to be second oldest, but now I'm third oldest again - I can't tell you how happy I am about that," Hamilton said at the drivers' press conference for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

"I think it's great for Robert. I raced him from karting so I've known him for long, long time and he was always one of most talented drivers I raced against. he's had a really difficult time over the last years and its great to see he's got the opportunity.

"I hope he works hard on his strength and getting his mind back into gear it's exciting for the sport to see him back in action."

Alonso, sat beside Hamilton during the press conference, echoed the comments of his colleague, praising Kubica's driving prowess.

"He's one of the great talents that this sport has and it's great to see him come back to race," Alonso said.

"It remains to be seen what will be the performance of the car and his performance. I only saw a couple of tests, but if he's at 100 per cent he will be amazing to watch so I'm happy for him."

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