Vettel's gearbox gets the green light for Suzuka!

©WRI2

40

Sebastian Vettel heads to Japan reassured about the state of his gearbox, putting to rest fears of a grid penalty for next Sunday's race.

Following the German's clumsy collision with an inattentive Lance Stroll on the slow-down lap of the Malaysia Grand Prix, Ferrari feared the car's gearbox would have to be replaced, handing Vettel a five-spot grid penalty.

'Angry' Marchionne raps Ferrari's knuckles and makes changes

The component was immediately flown back to the factory in Maranello for a thorough examination but it has now apparently been given the green light.

The gearbox will be sent to Japan and fitted to Vettel's SF70H chassis for Saturday morning's free practice session in Suzuka.

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

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.