Drivers pass medical examinations ahead of Sepang event
Sunday 29 March 2015 07:12, UK
Fernando Alonso and Valtteri Bottas have been cleared to race in this weekend's Malaysia Grand Prix.
Alonso will step back into his McLaren on Friday at Sepang after passing a series of concussion tests while Williams driver Bottas is fully recovered from a back problem which developed in Australia and forced him to miss the season-opening race in Melbourne.
Double world champion Alonso was knocked out in a crash at the Circuit de Catalunya which forced him out of the final test, as well as the season-opening race in Australia two weeks ago.
An FIA statement read: "In accordance with normal procedures, McLaren-Honda driver Fernando Alonso was this morning (Thursday) examined by the FIA medical delegate and chief medical officer at the Sepang circuit medical centre.
"During the examination the driver passed all mandatory fitness tests and has thus been declared fit to race in this weekend's Malaysian Grand Prix."
A happy Alonso later tweeted: "Green light to race. Thanks to @fia and @McLarenF1 for the work, professionalism and help on this last month. #ready."
Bottas suffered his injury during qualifying in Melbourne, and he was forced to miss the race, but rest and rehabilitation will see the Finn back on the grid on Sunday.
A Williams statement read: "Following the injury Valtteri sustained to his lower back during qualifying for the Australian GP, he has been with a leading physiotherapist who has been working with Valtteri and his trainer to make sure he received the best treatment possible ahead of this weekend's race.
"The team has always been fully supportive of Valtteri and his determination to return to the cockpit.
"Following final approval by the FIA medical team in Malaysia today (Thursday), we are pleased to confirm Valtteri will be back in the FW37 this weekend for the Malaysian Grand Prix."
Soon after, Bottas tweeted: "Passed the medical tests and I've been given green light from @fia to race this weekend! Lets do it! #WeAreRacing #MalaysianGP #77."
Sky Sports F1 will show every session from the Malaysia Grand Prix weekend live and available on the move with Sky Go. The race starts at 8am on Sunday, with comprehensive build-up underway from 6:30am.
