Renault plans tests to precede Kubica return

A return to formula one by Robert Kubica would be proceeded by a series of private track tests, according to F1news.ru.

The report quoted Renault team boss Eric Boullier as saying the tests could take place as soon as "the end of the summer", after Pole Kubica hinted last week that he might be fit to race at the Brazil season finale.

"I like to have a goal when it’s a reasonable one," he said. "We’ll see how the next few months go in terms of the rehabilitation process evolution and then we’ll take a decision in due time."

And Boullier is quoted as saying: "We often talk with Robert. He feels good, but the recovery from damaged nerves always takes time."

"I think at the end of the summer the final phase of recovery will begin. Then it will become clearer when he can return."

As for the private track tests, the Frenchman added: "We have something planned for the fall."