The FIA has cleared Fernando Alonso to return to the wheel of his McLaren for opening practice at the Chinese Grand Prix.
Alonso underwent an evaluation at the Shanghai International Circuit today and will be the subject of further tests following the opening session in order to receive the green light for the race.
The two-time world champion was prevented from participating in Bahrain two weeks ago due to the punctured lung and fractured ribs he sustained in Australia’s season opener.
An FIA statement explained that Alonso has not yet been given full clearance to compete in China due to the specific circumstances around when the injury was first discovered.
“Since the accident at the Australian Grand Prix, McLaren Honda Formula 1 Team driver Fernando Alonso has been undergoing the process of ‘reintegration’ in accordance with Chapter II of Appendix L of the International Sporting Code,” read the statement.
“McLaren Honda have applied for Alonso to participate in the 2016 Chinese Grand Prix.
“As the injury to the driver was discovered some days after the Australian Grand Prix, the reintegration does not strictly fall within the text of the Appendix.
“Therefore, the Stewards have taken advice from the FIA Medical Delegate (Jean-Charles Piette), who in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of the Chinese Grand Prix, and the driver’s doctors advise, that he considers the driver provisionally fit to take part in the event.
“Given the exceptional circumstances, and having heard from the team, the Stewards have decided to exempt the driver from strict compliance with Art. 3(b) of Chapter II of Appendix L, relying instead on Art. 3(a),which has been satisfied.
“Therefore driver Fernando Alonso will be allowed to participate, subject to the provision below.
“The driver has been given directions by the FIA Medical Delegate and CMO which he is to follow (Art. 12.1.1.i of the International Sporting Code.)
“Further, in accordance with Art. 22.14 of the Formula One Sporting Regulations, he is instructed by the FIA Medical Delegate and CMO to undergo a further examination immediately following FP1 to determine his further eligibility to take part in the remainder of the event.”
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