2016 GP2 Series runner-up Antonio Giovinazzi will once again deputise for the unfit Pascal Wehrlein at the upcoming Chinese Grand Prix, Sauber has confirmed.
Wehrlein pulled out of the season opener in Melbourne after Friday practice after feeling not fit enough to continue for the rest of the weekend.
Wehrlein sustained injuries at the Race of Champions in Miami back in January and was forced to miss the first pre-season test in Barcelona.
Giovinazzi enjoyed a promising start to his Formula 1 career in Melbourne, nearly out-qualifying more experienced team-mate Marcus Ericsson. The Italian finished 12th on his debut.
Wehrlein aims to return to action in Bahrain on April 16 or at the Russian Grand Prix on April 30.
