In between the two practice sessions for the Chinese Grand Prix on Friday, Fernando Alonso was finally given the all clear to take part in the rest of the race weekend in Shanghai.
Following the huge shunt at the Australian Grand Prix, that saw the Spaniard barrel roll through the air before ending up in the barrier, Fernando Alonso was forced to sit out the Bahrain Grand Prix when found to still be suffering with broken ribs. Despite the McLaren driver confirming that he himself felt fit to race, the FIA were not willing to take the risk, and advised Alonso he would have to sit out the race.
As the Chinese Grand Prix grew closer, the FIA confirmed that Alonso could take part in Free Practice 1, but would have to complete further medical tests after the session to confirm whether he could continue in the MP4-31 for the rest of the weekend, or whether stand in driver Stoffel Vandoorne would once again take to the wheel.
The official FIA statement advised:
“As a result of a medical examination following Free Practice One, the FIA F1 Medical Delegate, Prof. Jean-Charles Piette, and the chief medical officer of the Chinese Grand Prix, Prof. Shiyi Chen, have ruled that Fernando Alonso is fit to take part in all remaining sessions this weekend.”
“However, as with this morning’s session, in case of any abnormal symptoms the driver has been informed that he must stop his car immediately.”
“As the driver has been cleared to take part, no further medical checks will be undertaken unless the driver prevents any abnormal symptom.”
Following no issues with his driving during the FP1 session, it was a relief for Alonso to be cleared to get on with his race weekend.
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