Wehrlein confirms he will miss first pre-season test

Pascal Wehrlein has confirmed that he will miss the first test of pre-season in two weeks due to a back injury. The injury came at the Race of Champions when the German rolled his vehicle after hitting into Felipe Massa.

The 22 year old joins Sauber for 2017 after his former team Manor failed to find a buyer and therefore will not compete in the 2017 season. 2016 GP2 runner-up and Ferrari reserve driver Antonio Giovinazzi will replace Wehrlein for the first week of testing.

Wehrlein will be back for the second week and will feature in the car, gaining some experience and getting a feel forthe car before the first race of the season at Australia.