Alonso cleared to drive in China, but faces more tests

While issues with paperwork delayed the governing body formally approving Alonso's return to the cockpit, the governing body said on Thursday it was satisfied with the Spaniard's condition.

However, it said Alonso will have to undergo further tests after first practice.

"Fernando Alonso will be allowed to participate, subject to the provision below.

"The driver has been given directions by the FIA Medical Delegate and CMO which he is to follow (Art. 12.1.1.i of the International Sporting Code.)

"Further, in accordance with Art. 22.14 of the Formula One Sporting Regulations, he is instructed by the FIA Medical Delegate and CMO to undergo a further examination immediately following FP1 to determine his further eligibility to take part in the remainder of the Event."

Feeling ready

Speaking to the media before hearing from the FIA, Alonso said he had fully recovered from his Australian Grand Prix crash.

"I feel good. I feel okay," he said. "Honestly, in Bahrain I was mentally 100 percent ready to race, but physically I had a lot of pain in Bahrain and I was ready to try at least and see if the pain was manageable or not with the rib broken. Now the situation has improved a lot.

"I am mentally 120 percent now and physically I am 100 percent with no pain. At least in the last couple of days I have been training with a more or less normal routine for the last two weeks, running, bicycle, golf and tennis – many sports that are a big change in approach for this race a bit more ready and fit.

"I did sleep okay for the last two weeks as well which was quite a good thing because in the first 10 days after Australia I could not sleep on one side, which was not very comfortable. As I said from Bahrain to here a big improvement. I feel good."