Formula One: Fernando Alonso leaves hospital three days after crash

Two-time Formula One world champion Fernando Alonso has left hospital following a crash during testing in Barcelona last weekend, his McLaren team announced on Wednesday

Barcelona: Two-time Formula One world champion Fernando Alonso has left hospital following a crash during testing in Barcelona last weekend, his McLaren team announced on Wednesday.


Fernando Alonso. Pic/AFP 

"We are pleased to confirm that Fernando Alonso has now left hospital. He has returned to his family's home in Spain for further rest and recuperation," McLaren said in a statement.

The Woking-based team also confirmed that Alonso will not drive in this week's final four-day pre-season test, which begins in Barcelona on Thursday. "As a result, he will sit out this week's final winter test, at which he was due to share driving duties with Jenson Button.

"Kevin Magnussen, McLaren-Honda's test and reserve driver, will replace him." Alonso crashed into a wall after completing just 20 laps on Sunday and was airlifted to hospital under sedation.

The 33-year-old Spaniard suffered concussion but McLaren said scans on the 2005 and 2006 world champion were "completely normal." The team blamed unusually strong winds for the crash and categorically denied there had been any mechanical failure with their MP4-30 car.

McLaren have suffered numerous setbacks in testing ahead of the new season, which gets underway with the Australian Grand Prix on March 15. After eight days of testing, McLaren have completed less than half the mileage of every other team on the grid and nearly five times less than reigning champions Mercedes.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!