Former Formula One driver Robert Kubica will compete in the world rally championship's WRC2 category this year driving for Citroen, as he returns to high-level racing after a career-threatening injury.
After having taken part in several national rallies, the Polish driver will compete in the European and World Rally Championships in a Citroen DS3, the French car manufacturer said on its racing website Monday.
Kubica will compete at the European rally championship's Canary Islands rally on March 21-23 before starting his program on the second-tier WRC2 circuit at Rally Portugal on April 11-14.
“I weighed up the different options before deciding on this program,” the 28-year-old Kubica said. “I kept in touch with Citroen Racing and both sides were keen to continue working together. I'm really pleased now to be able to return to top-level racing.”
He has committed to seven races on the 2013 WRC2 calendar and may take part in additional European championship rallies.
“I can't wait to start racing, but I haven't set myself any specific target,” Kubica said. “I still have a lot to learn in rallying and to improve I will need to rack up the miles on the stages.”
Kubica had his right hand partially severed and fractured his elbow, shoulder and leg in a heavy crash while racing in the Ronde di Andora rally two years ago.
“I am especially pleased to have Robert Kubica as one of our drivers in 2013,” Yves Matton, Citroen Racing's team principal, said. “Robert's determination is an example to us all.”
Before his accident, Kubica competed in 76 F1 races for BMW and Renault, with his only victory coming in Canada in 2008. -Sapa-AP