Wehrlein still undergoing medical checks - Sauber

Pascal Wehrlein is still undergoing medical examinations for injuries sustained in a scary crash at this year's Race of Champions, Sauber have confirmed.

The German had to withdraw from Nations Cup section of the event last month in Miami, Florida, after losing control of his three-wheeled Polaris Slingshot machine and flipping violently into the barriers.

With the first of this year's two pre-season tests set to begin on Febraury 27, Sauber have confirmed that Wehrlein's fitness is still being assessed - although they described media reports that he could be forced to sit out as 'pure speculation'.

"Current rumours about Pascal Wehrlein in the media: The medical examinations are still ongoing," Sauber said on Twitter. "Therefore, the reports are pure speculations. We will provide information in due time."

This year will be Wehrlein's first with Sauber, the German having transferred from Manor to partner Marcus Ericsson at the Swiss team in 2017.