Bottas confident of Williams return in Malaysia

Valtteri Bottas says he has “taken the necessary measures” to race at this weekend’s Malaysian Grand Prix after suffering a small tear in his lower back during qualifying in Melbourne.

The Finn was ruled out of the season opener when he failed to pass FIA medical checks on race day. The Williams driver then headed for Indonesia where he spent some time to foster his recovery bid and get used to the sweltering heat and humidity ahead of a potential competitive return in Sepang.

"After Melbourne I have stayed in Asia to acclimatise to the hot conditions and adjust to the right time zone," said Bottas. "I trained a lot over the winter to prepare for these physically difficult conditions.

"After such a frustrating Sunday in Australia, I have taken the necessary measures to make sure I arrive in Malaysia fit to race and ready to bring the results home."

Although Williams fully supports Bottas’ push to come back this weekend, the Grove-based squad also indicates that the 25-year-old will have to undergo final FIA medical checks on Thursday before receiving the all-clear.

The team is yet to reveal who will replace Bottas if the Finn has to sit out the second round of this year's championship. Although Williams has test driver Susie Wolff and reigning GP3 Series Alex Lynn on its books, the outfit is believed to be evaluating other options as well.

Click here to learn about a key Mercedes power unit change in 2015

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