Fernando Alonso to not race in Bahrain Grand Prix

McLaren-Honda driver Fernando Alonso has been ruled out of competing in this weekend’s Grand Prix in Bahrain.   Following medical tests on Thursday, Alonso was barred from racing by the FIA medics after a violent crash in the season opener at Melbourne, Australia.

He will be replaced by McLaren reserve driver Stoffel Vandoorne, who will be making his F1 debut in Bahrain.

He said it was “not 100%” that he will be able to race in China in two weeks and he will be tested again in the next eight to ten days after which governing body the FIA will evaluate his condition.

Alonso added: “I am already recovered from the pneumothorax but the rib is too fresh and it could be a potential problem.

“I have no respiratory problems. It is a small risk, but I understand they want no risk. It is just a question of time – it should be OK in the next 10 days but there is no guarantee.”

Vandoorne, a 24-year-old Belgian, is the reigning GP2 champion – the level below F1 – and one of the most highly regarded drivers not to have a regular F1 drive.

He will fly overnight to Bahrain from Japan, where he has been testing the car he races in their Super Formula series.

Vandoorne tweeted: “About to board for Bahrain, a bit earlier than expected but so much looking forward to it. Will do my very best for the team.”

He is a possibility to replace Britain’s Jenson Button as Alonso’s team-mate in 2017 and racing this weekend provides him an opportunity to showcase his abilities.