SHANGHAI – Fernando Alonso got the all-clear from medics to compete in the Chinese Grand Prix on Friday after recovering from a horrific crash at the season-opening race in March.
The former Formula One world champion passed tests after Friday’s first free practice in Shanghai, and ruling body the FIA said no further medical checks were needed unless he develops any “abnormal symptoms”.
Alonso posted the 12th fastest time in morning practice as he returned for McLaren after missing the Bahrain race two weeks ago with fractured ribs.
“As a result of a medical examination undertaken following Free Practice One… Fernando Alonso is fit to take part in all remaining sessions this weekend,” an FIA statement read.
“However, as with this morning’s session, in case of any abnormal symptoms the driver has been informed that he must stop his car immediately,” it added.
“No further medical checks will be undertaken unless the driver presents any abnormal symptom.” Alonso admitted he was “lucky to be alive” after his car flipped and went into a terrifying roll in Melbourne at close to 200 miles (320 kilometres) per hour.
The 34-year-old, who spent several nights in hospital, insisted after arriving in Shanghai that he was now free from pain.
“The pain level is zero,” said Alonso, who won back-to-back world titles with Renault in 2005 and 2006.
“I feel 100 per cent. If I wasn’t sure I wouldn’t fly here.” McLaren reserve driver Stoffel Vandoorne took Alonso’s place in Bahrain and scored a point on his debut.
