Montoya back in action for Spain

Juan Pablo Montoya will be back in action at this weekend's Spanish Grand Prix after missing the last two races due to a shoulder injury. The Colombian fractured his shoulder blade at Easter and had to miss Bahrain and Imola, but is fit to race at Barcelona.

Juan Pablo Montoya.

Photo by xpb.cc.

"I'm obviously extremely pleased to get back behind the wheel again," he said. "It's been so frustrating for me to be a spectator and I'm looking forward to the weekend."

"The Barcelona track is physically demanding because of all the fast corners but I have undergone an extensive rehabilitation programme to build up the muscles in my shoulder so I will be well prepared."

Test drivers Pedro de la Rosa and Alex Wurz each had a turn at standing in for the Colombian and both picked up points in their respective races. De la Rosa will return to the third driver role for Friday's practice sessions at his home race.

McLaren CEO Martin Whitmarsh said: "We are pleased to have Juan Pablo back and look forward to a competitive weekend. His injury has healed well and he has been able to train the muscles in his shoulder over the past weeks and I know he just can't wait to drive."

No doubt Montoya will be keen to make his presence felt after his absence. "It is good to have Juan Pablo back at the wheel in Barcelona," Mercedes boss Norbert Haug commented. "He will be highly focused to compete in Formula One again after he has missed two races."