Abiteboul: 'Kubica not on our list, but that could change'

Renault Sport boss Cyril Abiteboul is keeping expectations in check following ramping speculation that Robert Kubica could return to Enstone in 2018.

Kubica's successful 155-lap test at Valencia two weeks ago and his subsequent bullish comments describing himself as physically capable of driving an F1 car at the very best level have fueled the prospects of a comeback.

But Abiteboul  insists that the French manufacturer's 2018 plans do not currently include Robert Kubica

"I know that the sport is full of speculation and rumours and all these things," he told Motorsport.com.

"But I think in this present case we need to be a little bit careful, because we're talking about an individual that we all love, with a fantastic image, and who has suffered a very difficult situation from a personal perspective.

"So I think I would ask on this occasion everyone to be a little bit careful. Yes, we have done that test, but we don't want to create expectations in anyone's mind, including Robert himself."

• Kubica's comeback: 'I have a plan in my head'

While Abiteboul would not definitely rule out Kubica's return, he emphasized that Renault had simply not yet entered its phase of driver selection for next season.

"Look, we'll have at some point to discuss about our future line-up, that's public information. We have a long-term contract with Nico, and a contract for 2017, and all of 2017, with Jolyon.

"But at some point we will have to review options. If by then, Robert becomes an option, we can have a look.

"As we speak, he's not on the list. He has many more things he has to accomplish so that he could be on the list."

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