Wehrlein replaced by Giovinazzi at Australian GP

Pascal Wehrlein will not compete in the Australian GP this weekend at the Albert Park circuit in Melbourne. The Sauber driver gave way to the 3rd driver Antonio Giovinazzi who took part in the last practice session and who will be lined up on the C36 of the former champion DTM in qualifying and in the race.

The Swiss team explained that Pascal Wehrlein had not been able to sufficiently prepare physically to drive the Sauber C36 following his accident during the Race of Champions in Miami (Florida) last January which caused him to miss testing.

“My level of preparation is not sufficient to cover a complete race, confirmed Pascal Wehrlein. I explained the situation to the team last night. Sauber F1 Team decided not to take any risks. It's unfortunate, but it's the best decision for the team. »

“We have the greatest respect for Pascal’s professionalism, added Moinisha Kaltenborn, Sauber Team Principal. This decision was not easy for him to make. Pascal will be present in China as planned. »