Pascal Wehrlein withdraws from Australian Grand Prix

25 March 2017 02:53

Unfit Sauber driver Pascal Wehrlein has been forced to withdraw from the season-opening Australian Grand Prix.

The 22-year-old young Mercedes driver sustained a back injury after a spectacular crash at the exhibition Race of Champions event in Miami in January.

He missed the opening test in Barcelona last month, but returned for the second and concluding one and was cleared fit by the FIA, Formula One's governing body, to participate here in Melbourne on Sunday.

But after competing in practice at Albert Park on Friday, Wehrlein has pulled out of qualifying and the race citing a lack of fitness.

Wehrlein will be replaced by Ferrari's Italian reserve driver Antonio Giovinazzi, who filled in for him at the first pre-season test.

"My fitness level is not as it should be for a full race distance because of my training deficit," Wehrlein said.

"I explained the situation to the team yesterday evening. Therefore, they have decided not to take any risks. It is a pity, but the best decision for the team."

Sauber team principal Monisha Kaltenborn said the team did not want to take unnecessary risks.

"We have great respect of Pascal's openness and professionalism," she said. "This decision was definitely not an easy one for him. It underlines his qualities as a team player.

"The focus is now on his fitness level. Pascal will be in China as planned."

Source: PA