Sainz spotted in Melbourne: Ferrari driver's return imminent?

Carlos Sainz has already been spotted in Melbourne where this weekend's Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix will be held. Oliver Bearman was allowed to make his Formula 1 debut in Jeddah, but he will not get another chance next weekend in Australia. Sainz looks to be better.

The Spaniard had to leave the Formula 1 paddock in Jeddah over the weekend as he needed surgery. The Ferrari driver was suffering from appendicitis, but Spain's Marca has already spotted the driver in Melbourne. The newspaper reports that he is moving around the airport with ease, already looking better than he did in Jeddah.

Sainz must pass FIA test

On Thursday, Sainz will try to pass an FIA test, which would mean he can get back behind the wheel of the SF-24 during all sessions. This test will be done at the circuit, and a medical delegate from the FIA must be there at all times. Sainz is already in Melbourne this early to recover from jet lag, according to the medium.

A Sainz return would mean Bearman would race again in Formula 2. The Brit is a driver there with Prema, but was allowed to fill in for Sainz in Saudi Arabia. Should Sainz fail the test, Bearman could fill in again, as Formula 2 also races in Melbourne this weekend.