Home race for Pizzonia

Antonio Pizzonia has been confirmed as Williams’ second driver for his home grand prix in Brazil next week.

The Brazilian stepped into replace Nick Heidfeld in Italy and Belgium after the German suffered concussion in a testing accident.

Heidfeld was expected to return to action at Interlagos but was hit by a motorcycle while cycling near his Swiss home, injuring his shoulder and dislocating several fingers.

Those injuries are expected to keep him out for the rest of the season and Pizzonia has again been called upon to deputise in Brazil.

Pizzonia said: “Obviously I am very happy I’ve been given the opportunity to race again, particularly as Brazil is my home race. It will be very special for me to race in front of a home crowd so I can’t wait.”

Pizzonia has so far only been confirmed for next weekend’s race, keeping rumours that Nico Rosberg could race in Japan and China alive.

Heidfeld is unlikely to race again this season, especially after he was confirmed today as a BMW driver next year.