Ferrari reveal Sainz F1 decision for Australian GP

Carlos Sainz is set to make his return to the cockpit at this weekend's Australian Grand Prix after missing the previous round in Saudi Arabia.

The Spaniard was behind the wheel in Jeddah during the first two practice sessions despite feeling unwell.

Sainz was diagnosed with appendicitis ahead of qualifying day, prompting Ferrari to call Oliver Bearman into action while Sainz underwent surgery.

Bearman impressed on his Grand Prix debut, qualifying in 11th place before rising to seventh at the chequered flag.

Although Bearman will hold reserve duties once again in Australia this weekend, Sainz is expected to make his return.

“Carlos Sainz is expected to be back in the car, having had to miss Jeddah with appendicitis,” Ferrari stated.

“He and team-mate Charles Leclerc will most likely be fighting at the front of the field, as they have done in the first two rounds.”

Sainz ended the season-opening race in Bahrain in third place before Leclerc took a podium finish in Jeddah last time out.