Kubica doesn't want to just 'make up the numbers'

Robert Kubica has insisted that if he does manage to make a spectacular return to Formula One racing following the accident which almost cost him his career in 2011, it will to be as a fast, competitor driver and not to be there to simply 'make up the numbers'.

Throughout this F1 season, Kubica has been working hard on his potential comeback and has been on test drives with both Renault and Williams, and is reportedly now in the running for a 2018 seat with the latter next season alongside Lance Stroll.

Kubica lost part of his forearm in an accident during a rally race six years ago and has undergone numerous operations to have it repaired. The Pole has claimed that although it is nice that some people want him to return due to the fairytale comeback aspect of his story, he wants to be as competitive as he can be if he is lucky enough to compete in F1 again.

"A lot of things have been written and talked about lately," he said.

"I think that’s normal because there are a lot of question marks and everybody has their own opinion. I think there are a lot of people who want to see me back because of the story.

"The story is nice but in the end there are no discounts for the story, in the end I have to make sure if I get the chance I am ready, and I have to be as best prepared as I can if something comes up. I appreciate it [support from fans] because I think there’s a lot of hope and a lot of wishes of a lot of people, but in the end I know how reality is.

Even with the arm repair, Kubica went on to say that he is gaining more confidence every day he is back in the car.

"The reality is that once I’m in the car there is no story anymore, I have to be myself with the car and with the team and the job has to be done. First of all I have to be sure that I am able to do it and for sure every day is giving me a lot of confidence that things can work out pretty well.

"For my standards to be met it pretty much means I have to drive at a high level. If I’m coming back I’m not just here to make up the numbers. Although I’ve been away for seven years, with my limitations I have to be sure that I am able to provide my best possibilities and be the best Robert Kubica which I know."