Formula One driver Robert Kubica is continuing to improve in hospital following his weekend rally crash.

A statement from the Enstone-based Lotus Renault GP team this afternoon said his general condition was encouraging.

A team spokesman said: "According to the doctors, the levels of inflammation are in the norm considering his medical condition, and the recovery of his forearm remains encouraging.

"Yesterday, Robert was able to talk to his doctors and relatives. His medication makes him sleep quite a lot, but he is responding to all external stimulation.

"He has reacted well to the news about his condition and is ready to fight for his comeback.

"On Thursday, Robert should undergo some more surgery in order to stabilise the fractures to his right shoulder and right foot. Three or four days later, another operation will allow his elbow fracture to be stabilised as well.

"Robert will remain at the Santa Corona Hospital for two to three weeks. A decision will then be taken about where he should go in order to continue his rehabilitation."

An initial estimation from surgeon Professor Mario Igor Rossello, who was involved in the operation to reconstruct Kubica's hand, was that he faced a year out of Formula One, although Lotus Renault team principal Eric Boullier later expressed hope of a quicker return.

The new F1 season gets under way in Bahrain on March 13 and the team have a choice to make as to whether they turn to one of their reserve drivers to fill the void alongside Russia's Vitaly Petrov.

Bruno Senna, who raced for Hispania last year, and Romain Grosjean, who contested seven grands prix for Renault in 2009, are the men in the frame, although the team may yet seek a more experienced head, with both Nick Heidfeld and Vitantonio Liuzzi - both of whom are without a drive in 2011 - likely candidates.

Liuzzi, though, said after visiting the Santa Corona hospital: "A lot of people talked about this: not the team, but a lot of journalists. Personally, at the moment I think Robert's health is the first thing.

"Then, it's obvious that when Renault are sure that Robert won't be able to step in the car, this chance might be open and I hope to be chosen instead of somebody else. But, again, at the moment Robert's health is the priority."

The 26-year-old Pole was taking part in the Ronde di Andora Rally, near Genoa, Italy, when his Skoda Fabia left the road and crashed into a wall.

Kubica was airlifted to the hospital in Pietra Ligure with serious injuries to his arm, leg and hand. His co-driver, Jakub Gerber was unhurt.