Pascal Wehrlein to miss Barcelona tests through injury
A missed debut for Pascal Wehrlein: although the German driver was due to make his Sauber debut, he was forced to withdraw from the first tests in Barcelona due to back pain. He could be replaced by Antonio Giovinazzi.
Last month, Pascal Wehrlein was involved in an impressive accident during the Race of Champions in Miami. Although he emerged unscathed from his car, the German driver is still experiencing back pain nearly a month later. With the intense physical demands expected under the new regulations, Pascal Wehrlein had no choice but to announce that he would have to withdraw from the first week of testing in Barcelona.
I have to skip the first wintertest due to medical advice because of a BACK issue. I feel sorry for the team but we’ll come back stronger!
— Pascal Wehrlein (@PWehrlein) February 17, 2017
Sauber is therefore forced to find a second driver as it seems very difficult for Marcus Ericsson to handle four days of testing all by himself. The solution could come from Ferrari, which could thus provide their new third driver, Antonio Giovinazzi.
The Italian driver conducted an initial short test session on the Fiorano circuit but has yet to participate in an official Formula 1 session. He would then have a unique opportunity to test the brand-new generation of cars and could play a crucial role in their development. If the test proved successful, he could take the opportunity to secure a reserve driver position with Sauber and participate in Friday morning tests, especially since he enjoys generous support from KFC’s Indonesian subsidiary.
With the participation of www.racingbusiness.fr
