Fernando Alonso retires from Australian GP - but then mysteriously returns

Fernando Alonso's Australian Grand Prix came to a halt at the end of lap 13 following an issue with his Aston Martin.

The Spaniard was told to stop by the Silverstone-based outfit, an order Alonso immediately respected by pulling into the pit lane.

Alonso being told to stop in the season-opener was expected following a string of issues with Honda's power unit.

Despite the difficulties Aston Martin has faced already this year, Alonso qualified 17th and found himself running in 10th in the opening laps.

Unfortunately, he quickly tumbled backwards through the order before being called in to retire.

Ahead of the weekend, team principal Adrian Newey revealed that Alonso had said he could not complete more than 25 laps due to the risk of permanent nerve damage in his hands.

However, in a remarkable turn of events, Alonso suddenly rejoined the circuit 11 laps later.

In a short statement, Aston Martin confirmed: "The team decided to bring Fernando back into the garage to make some adjustments to his AMR26. He has now rejoined the Australian Grand Prix."

*Update: Alonso retired once again on lap 32.