Giovinazzi to replace Wehrlein in China

Sauber has confirmed that Italian GP2 runner up Antonio Giovinazzi will continue to drive for the injured Pascal Wehrlein in China.

The Italian raced for Wehrlein last minute when he withdrew after fearing he could not do a full race. And he impressed, qualifying just outside Q2 and finishing in P12.

Pascal was injured at this years Race of champions which ended in Giovinazzi also taking over for the first pre-season test.

Wehrlein has said that his reason for withdrawing was again down to lack of physical training, the new cars require the drivers to be much fitter and stronger and the German believes he is not yet up to the job due to the recovery time needed for his injury.

In a team preview Wehrlein said “For me the most important is that I can train intensively to ensure a 100 percent performance from my side as soon as possible,”

“I will then be well-prepared for my first complete Grand Prix weekend for the Sauber F1 Team. 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.”

Wehrlein has also said that he may also miss the Bahrain grand prix if his fitness doesn’t improve.