Ralf Schumacher hopes to take Williams test
Ralf Schumacher’s hopes of returning to Formula One action rest on a Williams test at the end of this month.
The German has been out of action since cracking bones in his spine in a heavy accident at Indianapolis in June.
He was expected to return last weekend in Hungary but extended his lay-off after being warned another similar accident could leave him paralysed.
His latest comeback date is the Italian Grand Prix on September 12, but his readiness for that will be judged in testing at Monza two weeks earlier - providing he is even allowed to drive his Williams during the four-day session.
Formula One doctor Sid Watkins said: “At first, Ralf’s medic will have to decide if Ralf is fit enough to contest a test. Then Ralf will have to complete a further test before he can contest a race.”
Antonio Pizzonia will contest the Belgian Grand Prix in Schumacher's absence and would be on stand-by should he fail to recover in time for Italy.
