Kubica driving "70% left-handed" due to rally injuries

Robert Kubica is apparently driving "70% left-handed" after the injuries he sustained in a rally crash back in 2011. The Pole has been testing for Renault and Williams since his return to the sport but is relying on a dominant left hand to drive the car.

In an interview with Autosport, Kubica admitted that overcoming the crash had been difficult but he believes that it has meant he has developed strength and precision he did not have before his accident.

"Many years ago, when I started testing with simulators, I asked my doctor if it's possible I have much better sensitivity, more precision in my left arm.

"Last year, I was asked by Renault to go to a medical centre where they test a lot of that stuff.

"Actually, my results for precision and speed and force of the left arm was at least 35% better than the best they have ever seen.

"Somehow, your body adapts to reality. If you are two-handed, healthy, you don't need to be so precise with one arm.

"So, for example, when I'm driving, I'm driving around 70% left-handed and 30% right.

"If I were to try to do 50/50 like the old days, I would not manage it."

His return excited fans around the world having been seen as one of the peripheral drivers who could challenge for a world championship in the right machinery. He believes that he can still perform at the level required despite his injury.

"In 2010, I was doing Eau Rouge with Renault in qualifying with one hand because I was covering the hole to stop the rear wing and I was going through Eau Rouge one-handed," Kubica explained.

"This was much more dangerous than my driving now, because then I was really driving only one-handed.

"Of course, there are moments where I drive only right-handed or let's say left-hand on the straight, I'm recovering my left hand.

"But this comes automatically and I think I'm very lucky in my position because I have always driven not in a physical way at all.

"I drive very relaxed. I've spoken with other drivers who have to hold the steering wheel (tightly) otherwise they can't drive it."