Latifi ruled out of testing for health reasons

40

Force India reserve driver Nicholas Latifi won't be running with the Silverstone-based outfit this week for health reasons.

The 22-year-old Canadian was scheduled to test on Thursday, this week's final day of running in Barcelona.

Still pretty in pink - Force India unveils its VJM11

After informing the team of his condition last week, he took to Twitter to explain the issue to his followers:

"Disappointed I can't be at the Force India launch in Barcelona this morning," he wrote.

"A serious infection put me in hospital last week and I'm now recovering at home. Aiming to be back on track in the next four weeks. Have to say, the VJM11 looks fantastic!"

Force India has yet to decide who it will run on Thursday. Development driver Nikita Mazepin will be handling testing duties today.

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.