Massa hoping Kubica is "strong enough" for F1 return

Felipe Massa agrees that it would be a fantastic story for Formula 1 if Robert Kubica returned to the sport. Kubica is rumoured to be in contention for the Renault seat in 2018 after the team confirmed he would undergo another private test to determine his capabilities.

"Whilst the first day of testing at Valencia was no more than to let Robert get reacquainted with the feel of driving again, this second test will be to assess his capabilities to return to the highest level of competition," said Renault's managing director, Cyril Abietboul.

Kubica last raced in Formula 1 in 2010 after being forced to pull out of the 2011 season due to an injury. Massa, who has experience racing with the Pole, says that he will very much be keeping an eye on how the story develops.

"It's very difficult to answer because we don't know exactly how he is and how is his arm," Massa said. "It would be fantastic for Formula 1 to have him back but I really hope he's really in the position to be back in the right way and strong enough to do the whole season," he added.

Fergal Walsh