Takuma Sato has been forced to withdraw from Sunday’s Malaysian Grand Prix after developing a fever following Friday’s free practice sessions. After receiving attention at the Sepang circuit’s medical centre, he appeared to show some signs of recovery, but, this morning, the fever had started to recur. Taku is running a temperature, and further medical tests have concluded that the fever is symptomatic of a viral infection.

In view of the fact that the Malaysian Grand Prix is such a physically demanding race for the driver, both the team and Takuma have accepted the medical team’s view that the most sensible course of action is to retire from the rest of the weekend.

　 “I am obviously extremely disappointed that I have had to retire from the Malaysian Grand Prix - a race that I have prepared extremely hard for. However, having discussed my condition with the medical staff and the team, I accept their advice that it is not sensible for me to take part in such a physically demanding race. I would like to take this opportunity to wish my team-mate Anthony Davidson well as he steps in for me for the rest of the weekend. I have now been advised to get plenty of rest and look forward to getting well again in time to be back in the car in Bahrain.”

　 Takuma Sato got his Malaysian Grand Prix weekend off to a promising start by finishing Friday’s free practice session 14th position.

Taku’s BAR-Honda 007 is equipped with aerodynamic developments for this race the team having tested them successfully in Europe last week - and the early signals are that the car’s handling has been greatly improved. Taku reported greater consistency over long runs, as well as improved pace over a single lap.

The intensive programme revolved around comparing two compounds of Michelin tyre, as well as refining set-up to suit the new aero parts, despite the excruciatingly hot conditions.

　 "It was good to get as many laps in as we planned today without any car issues. I had to back off a bit on my quick laps because of the yellow flags but, generally, the car balance was good and we have some valuable data for the tyres. It was really hot inside the cockpit, so it is going to be a tough race on Sunday, but we are looking good so far."