Kubica completes 90-lap test at Paul Ricard!

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Robert Kubica completed his second test with Renault at the Circuit Paul Ricard yesterday, a 90-lap run which was deemed as successful by the Pole.

Like at Valencia last month, Renault brought its 2012-spec Lotus E20 to a test2 destined mainly to assess Kubica's physical ability in a complete way and at a venue where Renault could better monitor the driver's progress, with an array of tools and measuring devices on site at the manufacturer's Paul Ricard base.

"Physically, there are no problems," the Pole told French daily L'Equipe.

"In Valencia, I was already pleased with the way my body and mind had reacted. Today, I feel even better and it gives me confidence as I realise that I can drive rather well."

Kubica admitted that the relative weakness of his right arm, which was severely injured in his career-halting rally accident in 2011, required a different approach to his driving but one he believed does not impact his skills.

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"I have to compensate with my left hand, so there's more stress on that side but it doesn't affect my driving," he adds.

"The only modification in the car is the fact that I'm using my left hand to change gears.

"I don't have any doubts about my ability but it's still a long road ahead. I need to recover my instinct. I do have physical limitations but there is no impact on my driving."

Renault is rumored to eventually run Kubica at the post-Hungarian Grand Prix in-season test, but Kubica is coy on the subject.

"I don't want to come back for nothing. I want to come back to the best possible level. I haven't tested a current-spec car, so I wouldn't be able to be ready for Silverstone.

"I would need a couple of days in a car, and that would boost my chances by 100 percent! Honestly, I'm doing my best to maximize my chances. But I don't know what the future holds."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.