Giovinazzi replaces Wehrlein for Australian GP

Pascal Wehrlein parks himself

The Sauber F1 Team has decided to replace Pascal Wehrlein for the Australian Grand Prix. Wehrlein does not feel fit enough for a complete race distance due to his training deficit. As of FP3, Antonio Giovinazzi will take over the Sauber C36-Ferrari for the rest of the Australian Grand Prix weekend.

Pascal Wehrlein (car number 94):
My fitness level is not as it should be for a full race distance because of my training deficit. I explained the situation to the team yesterday evening. Therefore, the Sauber F1 Team has decided not to take any risks. It is a pity, but the best decision for the team.

Monisha Kaltenborn, Team Principal:
We have great respect of Pascal’s openness and professionalism. This decision was definitely not an easy one for him, it underlines his qualities as a team player. The focus is now on his fitness level, and in such a situation we do not take any unnecessary risks. Pascal will be in China as planned.