Kubica opts for rally programme in 2013

Former Formula One driver Robert Kubica will drive a Citroen in the European and world rally championships this year as he continues his comeback from a near-fatal rally accident.

The Pole, who last raced in Formula One in 2010, said he had decided on a programme that will include seven rounds of the world championship in the WRC2 category starting in Portugal next month.

"I'm really pleased now to be able to return to top-level racing," the former BMW-Sauber and Renault grand prix driver, who recently tested a Mercedes DTM touring car, said in a Citroen statement.

"I can't wait to start racing, but I haven't set myself any specific target. I still have a lot to learn in rallying and to improve I will need to rack up the miles on the stages."

Citroen said the governing International Automobile Federation (FIA) had given special dispensation for Kubica's car to be fitted with a paddle shift gearbox.

The paddle will be installed to the left of the steering wheel, making it easier for Kubica who suffered severe hand and arm injuries in a crash while competing in a minor rally in Italy in February 2011.

The Pole, who has competed in several minor rallies as part of his rehabilitation, will also enter this month's Rally Canary Islands, part of the European Rally Championship.

Photograph: Bazuki Muhammad/Reuters