Kubica to compete in WRC2

Robert Kubica is refusing to set himself targets ahead of his long-awaited return to regular competitive rallying later this month.

Former Formula One star Kubica is to compete in the WRC2 category of the World Rally Championship in a Citroen DS3 RRC (Regional Rally Car).

The 28-year-old Pole will use the Rally Canary Islands, that forms part of the European Rally Championship, as a warm-up event on March 21-23 before taking on the WRC2 that starts in Portugal on April 11-14.

Due to Kubica's injuries to his right hand sustained in a rallying accident just over two years ago that ended his F1 career, the car has been specially modified, with approval from the FIA.

Kubica and Citroen have been given special dispensation to use a paddle-shift gearbox on the left side of the steering wheel, with its change of speed to match that of a conventional gearbox.

Ahead of the WRC2 championship, which also includes a visit to his home country in September, Kubica said: "I weighed up the different options before deciding this programme.

"I kept in touch with Citroen and both sides were keen to continue working together.

"I'm really pleased now to be able to return to top-level racing.

"I can't wait to start, but I haven't set myself any specific target.

"I still have a lot to learn and to improve I will need to rack up the miles on the stages."

Citroen Racing team principal Yves Matton believes what Kubica has been through over the past two years serves as an inspiration and he is only too delighted to play a part in his full-time comeback.

Matton said: "I am especially pleased to have Robert as one of our drivers in 2013.

"Thanks to the support of his partners, we are in the process of putting together a programme that will enable him to improve in a car that offers similar handling to a World Rally Car.

"Robert's determination is an example to us all and we are proud to associate Citroen Racing's image with such a resolutely positive individual."