Lotus Renault Formula One driver Robert Kubica has undergone seven hours of surgery for multiple injuries and faces two more to stabilise fractures.

Kubica was injured in a high-speed rally crash at the weekend when he apparently lost control when he took a bend at high speed and hit a guard rail.

His injuries are serious, the worst of which is his right hand which was partially severed by the railing. He also suffered a fractured elbow, right shoulder and right foot, but his condition is said to be improving.

He is expected to remain in hospital for two to three more weeks, which will be followed by rehabilitation.