No Monza return for Ralf

Ralf Schumacher will not be making his return to the cockpit at this week's Monza test and will also sit out the Italian Grand Prix, Williams confirmed on August 31st. Schumacher had hoped to be given the go ahead to take part in the test session, and subsequently the race, but has not been cleared to drive.

Ralf Schumacher.

Photo by Brousseau Photo.

"The BMW WilliamsF1 Team today confirmed that Ralf Schumacher will not take part in the forthcoming Monza test, and as a consequence, the Italian Grand Prix on September 12, 2004," said a statement.

"Ralf's recuperation continues well, and the German driver is expected to test after the Italian Grand Prix. Ralf's position in Italy will again be filled by Antonio Pizzonia, who performed strongly at the Belgian Grand Prix before being denied a podium finish by a mechanical failure."

Schumacher has now been out of action for five races and only four Grands Prix remain this season. His doctors advised eight to twelve weeks recovery time from a fractured spine and Monza was the earliest he was expected to return. China, on September 26th, is the next race after the Italian GP.