Formula 1 News - June 2005
Toyota

18 June: Ricarcdo Zonta replaces Ralf Schumacher at the United States Grand Prix

Ralf Schumacher will take no further part in this weekend's US Grand Prix at Indianapolis after a decision taken by the FIA's chief medical delegate at his check this morning.

Ralf will be replaced by Panasonic Toyota Racing's third driver Ricardo Zonta for the rest of the weekend. Zonta last raced for Toyota at last year's Brazilian Grand Prix.

Ralf Schumacher said: "This news is obviously very disappointing for myself and for the team. I wish the team all the best for the rest of the weekend and I'm confident that I will be back in time for this month's French Grand Prix."

Ricardo Zonta said: "Yesterday's events mean this is not an ideal situation for the whole team, and I'm especially sorry for Ralf. Of course I'm glad to be back with a chance to race the car, but on the other hand it's a very difficult situation. But I have been called up to race once before on a Saturday with a previous team so I will try to make the most out of the rest of the weekend."

Panasonic Toyota Racing Team Principal Tsutomu Tomita said: "Obviously Ralf is disappointed that he cannot race this weekend. However, after considering the recommendation of the FIA's medical team we have decided to put Ricardo Zonta into the car for the remainder of the weekend. We want to reassure you that this is a precautionary measure and we are confident that Ralf will be able to participate at this month's French Grand Prix."

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