Wehrlein fit and well after first day back in action

40

Pascal Wehrlein had no issues to report on Tuesday following his first session of the year behind the wheel of Sauber's new C36.

The German driver was sidelined on doctors orders after sustaining a back injury in a carsh at last month's Race of Champions in Miami.

Wehrlein only drove in the morning session to gauge his comfort and fitness levels but was satisfied with his performance.

"I am feeling good, I am very happy about today," he said yesterday upon completed his driving.

"I jumped into the car and no pain, nothing. I was pretty happy by lunchtime – totally fine, no issues.

Ericsson unsure about older-spec Ferrari engine

The Mercedes protege has been doubling down on his physical preparation to compensate for the lost time, but he also hopes to catch up on his driving with just a little over two weeks to go before the season kicks off in Melbourne.

"Of course you feel tired, but I don’t have pain," Wehrlein added.

"It is two separate things. I think it is good that my back is not making any trouble, or is painful after a few laps. That is a positive."

"In terms of my own level, I will be back soon. For sure the first race will be quite tough and also the second, because everything is new, new team, new engine, new tyres, new regulations. I lost two days of testing.

"Of course in the beginning I will lack something but I will catch up quite quickly in a few races and then I will be back where I should be."

GALLERY: F1 drivers' wives and girlfriends

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.