Sauber has confirmed that Antonio Giovinazzi will once again stand in for Pascal Wehrlein, with the Ferrari reserve driver taking over the German's seat for the Chinese Grand Prix this weekend.
Wehrlein sustained a back injury at the Race of Champions in January and was unable to participate in the opening pre-season test, but returned to action during the second group session, linking up with his new team in Barcelona.
Wehrlein ran during practice in Australia but declared himself unfit, as a result of his amended training regime, and withdrew from the remainder of the weekend's action, believing he would not be able to perform in race-trim to the best of his abilities.
Giovinazzi therefore got a late call-up to replace Wehrlein, qualifying 16th in his very first race – narrowly behind team-mate Marcus Ericsson – and finished 12th, just two positions shy of a points finish.
Speaking ahead of the Chinese GP this weekend, Wehrlein said his main aim was to ensure he is fit as soon as possible and will therefore focus on his recovery.
"For me the most important is that I can train intensively to ensure a 100% performance from my side as soon as possible," he said. "I will then be well-prepared for my first complete Grand Prix weekend for the Sauber F1 Team."
Wehrlein hopes to be back for the Bahrain GP, but admitted his return could come later in the season.
"Hopefully this can be in Bahrain but, if not, then we will take the time it needs until Russia to make sure I am completely ready."
Discussion about this post