Wehrlein ‘ruled out of first Barcelona test’

Sauber's Pascal Wehrlein will reportedly sit out the first pre-season test in Barcelona as he continues to recover from a back injury.

According to Autosport, Ferrari's third driver Antonio Giovinazzi will provide cover for the German who was injured in the Race of Champions event in January.

After undergoing several tests, Wehrlein has been told to extend his recovery period and will miss the first four-day testing sessions which begin on February 27.

Sauber are expected to confirm his absence in the next few days and Wehrlein will be assessed again ahead of the second test that will commence from March 7.