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FIA: Alonso gets all-clear to race in China

Shanghai - Fernando Alonso has passed a final medical check and is clear to compete in the Chinese Grand Prix, officials said on Friday, after he recovered from a horrific crash at the season-opening race in Australia.

The former Formula One world champion underwent tests after Friday's first free practice in Shanghai, after which ruling body the FIA said no further checks were needed unless he develops "abnormal symptoms".

After a long wait for news following his meeting with FIA doctors, it was announced he can test his recovery from chest injuries in Friday practice.

Full recovered?

Alonso earlier told Spanish reporters that he wanted the chance to prove his fitness.

He said: "It is difficult to compare F1 with another sport because of the sitting position and the G-forces but I have been in the gym and on the treadmill.  I hope to be 100% when I get in the car.

"I think it would be normal to let me do the first practice and then do a double-check to see if I have pain or if the rib is completely healed."

No more medical checks

Alonso passed tests after Friday's first free practice in Shanghai, after which the sport's ruling body the FIA said no further medical checks were needed unless the Spaniard develops any "abnormal symptoms".

Alonso posted the 12th fastest time in morning practice as he returned for McLaren after missing the Bahrain race two weeks ago with fractured ribs.

"As a result of a medical examination undertaken following Free Practice One... Fernando Alonso is fit to take part in all remaining sessions this weekend," an FIA statement read.

"However, as with this morning's session, in case of any abnormal symptoms the driver has been informed that he must stop his car immediately," it added.

"No further medical checks will be undertaken unless the driver presents any abnormal symptom."

The 34-year-old, who spent several nights in hospital, insisted after arriving in Shanghai that he was now free from pain.

"The pain level is zero," said Alonso, who won back-to-back world titles with Renault in 2005 and 2006.

"I feel 100%. If I wasn't sure I wouldn't fly here."

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