Fernando Alonso will be a late arrival at Formula 1’s Brazilian Grand Prix, after needing to return to Europe for treatment for an infection after the Mexico City Grand Prix.
The Spaniard had been unwell in the build-up to last weekend’s race, missing the media day but recovered in time to compete through the three days as he celebrated his 400th F1 weekend.
But Aston Martin says that the intestinal infection that struck him down forced him to travel back to Europe in recent days for treatment from a specialist.
Those efforts appear to have paid off and Alonso is now scheduled to fly to Brazil in time to take part in opening practice on Friday, although he will again miss Thursday’s media activities.
An Aston Martin statement said: “The extra day of treatment has delayed his travel plans to Brazil but ensures he will be ready for this weekend's racing.”
Although Alonso was able to drive the car in Mexico, he admitted over the course of the weekend that it had not been especially easy for him.
“I've been not 100% physically last few days,” he admitted, before ultimately retiring from the race. “But I think this circuit is also not super demanding in terms of G-forces and high speed.”
With Brazil being a sprint race, so extra points available, Alonso will want to make sure that he is in the best physical shape possible to maximise any opportunities that come up.
But were there to be any unexpected complications, then Aston Martin would likely slot in its reserve driver Felipe Drugovich – who will be present at his home race this weekend.
Speaking about his original plans for the event prior to the Alonso situation emerging, the Brazilian said: “I'll be doing a lot of interviews with local media, keeping across all the sessions when Lance and Fernando are out on track, and supporting the team with feedback.
"I'll enjoy being home as well. The São Paulo Grand Prix is always one I love attending because I get a lot of attention from the crowd and the media and I try and embrace that. Their support means a lot."
