• McLaren

Alonso returns to McLaren simulator

© Sutton Images

Enlarge

Fernando Alonso will return to the McLaren simulator on Wednesday as he closes in on a return to the cockpit ahead of the Malaysian Grand Prix.

Alonso was sidelined for the season opener in Melbourne due to the concussion he suffered during a crash on the final day of the second pre-season test. Spanish doctors advised him to sit out the opener in order to minimise the risk of Second Impact Syndrome.

On Wednesday Alonso returned to the McLaren Technology Centre in Woking to work in the simulator ahead of his planned comeback. That evening the Spaniard tweeted to confirm he had enjoyed the day back in the cockpit.

Gran día en la fabrica de McLaren! Muchas reuniones y trabajo en el simulador! Great day today at MTC! Lots of meetings and simulator work!

— Fernando Alonso (@alo_oficial) March 18, 2015

If he is unable to return for the Malaysia race, reserve driver Kevin Magnussen is expected to continue deputising for the Spaniard as he did in Australia.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.