Liuzzi sidesteps talk of replacing Kubica
Tonio Liuzzi is refusing to comment on reports that he is in line to replace Robert Kubica at Renault, saying attention should be on the Pole's recovery.
Kubica is likely to be out of action for most of the 2011 season after his right hand was partially severed in an accident during the Ronde di Andora Rally on Sunday.
Renault's team principal Eric Boullier says they will wait until doctors give a timescale on Kubica's recovery before deciding on any replacements.
"We are already starting to think, and work, on a contingency plan," Boullier said, "but we don't know yet. We are actually waiting to know how long it will take because, if it is a short-term replacement, we will take one of our reserve drivers. If he has to be longer, we may have to consider different options."
Liuzzi, who drove for Force India last year, is one of drivers who have been linked with Kubica's seat.
However, the Italian is refusing to comment on the speculation.
"A lot of people talked about this - not the team, but a lot of journalists," Liuzzi said after visiting Kubica at the Santa Corona hospital in Pietra Ligure.
"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."
Liuzzi, speaking to 422race.com, said of his visit: "I didn't see him personally. But I spoke to the doctors, his manager and Dr Ceccarelli (Lotus Renault GP's doctor): the people who are closest to him and who saw him. It seems that everything is going the right way and he is recovering right.
"For sure the first 4-5 days will be the most critical ones, but at the moment everything seems to go well."
Credit: PlanetF1.com (www.planetf1.com)
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