Kubica to remain in intensive care

Rome, Feb 14 (AFP) Formula One ace Robert Kubica is tostay another two days in intensive care following a nine-houroperation on Friday.

The Pole was due to be transferred back to an accidentand emergency unit today but authorities at the Santa Coronahosppital in Pietra Ligure, Liguria, released a statementsaying he will stay another 48 hours.

"Robert Kubica''s condition is fine. Kubica will remain inintensive care for two more days to allow a full check up andto avoid another change of department ahead of his nextoperation," said the statement.

"His general condition is satisfactory enough as to allowhis final surgical intervention (on his outer elbow) to takeplace on Wednesday."

Kubica underwent nine hours of surgery to his foot,shoulder and inner elbow.

He had previously been in the operating theatre for sevenhours to repair the functionality of his right hand.

The Lotus Renault GP driver crashed eight days ago whilecompeting at the Ronde di Andora Rally in Liguria.

He lost control on a bend at high speed and crashed intoa guard rail, which buckled the driver''s door, before endingup in a church wall. (AFP) SHN