Kubica seriously injured in crash

Lotus Renault driver Robert Kubica is undergoing surgery on multiple fractures after suffering a high-speed accident while competing in a rally in Italy.

The 26-year-old Pole was taking part in the Ronde di Andora Rally near Genoa when he left the road and crashed into a wall. Kubica was airlifted to the Pietra Ligure Hospital with serious injuries to his arm, leg and hand. His co-driver, Jakub Gerber was unhurt.

Kubica's Lotus Renault team gave an update on their official Twitter feed, saying: "After extensive medical checks, Robert has been diagnosed with multiple fractures to his right arm, leg and hand. He is undergoing surgery."

The accident is almost certain to rule Kubica out of the start of the Formula One season, which gets under way in Bahrain on March 13. Lotus Renault reserve driver Bruno Senna is the man most likely to deputise in Kubica's absence.

Kubica's accident prompted a flood of messages on Twitter, with many of his fellow drivers keen to offer their support.

Ferrari's Fernando Alonso said: "Let's all support Robert Kubica, who suffered an accident. Besides a great driver, he is a great person."

"I'm thinking of Robert, wish him all the best and hope to see him soon on the track and especially off-track as a friend," said Virgin Racing's Timo Glock.

Williams veteran Rubens Barrichello Tweeted: "I would like to ask you for your best wishes to Kubica. He is being operated (on) right now. We all like him and he deserves all the best."

The crash is reported to have taken place 4.6km into the stage. Kubica's car, a Skoda Fabia, left the road and collided with the wall of a church.

Kubica is said to have remained conscious during a lengthy operation to free him from the car before he was airlifted away.