Marko doesn't see why Kubica won't return to F1

Red Bull's Dr. Helmut Marko has offered his thoughts on Robert Kubica's potential return to Formula 1. Kubica has been targeting a full-time race seat in F1 for some time, after being forced to pull out of the 2011 season before it began.

Kubica was involved in a rally accident at the start of 2011 and was faced with life threatening injuries. After the Hungarian Grand Prix, the Pole took part in his first official F1 test in six years. Marko, who knows about life threatening injuries after being blinded by a flying stone while racing in 1972, says that it is very possible Kubica could return.

"Before his accident, Kubica was one of the quickest drivers of his time," he said. On top of that he had a successful time with Renault, and if they think that they can continue with that then it makes sense for them. I think it would be nice for Kubica to come back.

"And that age thing: I think that Verstappen is the exception. Generally, you have to look at the personality of a driver – there are some, like Verstappen, who are ready in their teens while others need more time. If Kubica still has what it takes, then why not?"

Marko also spoke about the 2017 season and believes that Sebastian Vettel, who currently leads the standings, will prevail: "I believe in Vettel, because I know his mental strength – and Ferrari has raised its game. Silverstone, I would say, was an exception – Ferrari was clearly the stronger car in the first half of the season and only due to various circumstances could they not materialize all their chances."

Fergal Walsh