London - One month before the northern winter testing begins, Pascal Wehrlein was sidelined by doctors following a scary crash at the annual Race of Champions event.
Held in Miami this year, the Race of Champions sees drivers from international series go head-to-head in various cars, including a bizarre three-wheeler.
Taking precaution
Racing with a passenger on board, Wehrlein flipped the car after making contact with a dividing barrier and his rival Felipe Massa.
The young German, who will switch from Manor to Sauber for 2017, was then sidelined by doctors "as a precautionary measure".
WATCH: Wehrlein's violent crash with Massa at #ROC
Wehrlein said: "I'd really like to race again and I feel fine, but the doctors have advised me to rest so of course I will take their advice.
"It's no more than mild discomfort, but my real priority for the coming year is my Formula 1 season."
According to German news agency DPA, Wehrlein said: "Somehow I crashed at the end of the straight line with Felipe. What is important is that everyone is OK. The speeds are not too high and the cars are extremely safe.”