Fernando Alonso has expressed natural disappointment he is to sit out the season-opening Formula One grand prix in Australia , but is fully appreciative of the circumstances . On advice from doctors Alonso will have to wait for his competitive return with McLaren until the second race in Malaysia later this month . Although given a clean bill of health after sustaining concussion in a heavy crash in the second pre-season test in Barcelona on February 22 , the fear of 'second-impact syndrome ' has forced Alonso 's hand . Fernando Alonso was involved in a high-speed crash during testing at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya . Alonso 's McLaren is recovered back to the pits on the back of a truck after crashing in Barcelona . McLaren driver Alonso was taken by helicopter to hospital following the accident in Catalonia . Alonso tweeted his disappointment at not being able to make the season-opening F1 grand prix in Australia . The term refers to a second concussion occurring when the effects of the first are still subsiding , potentially resulting in severe brain injuries , or even death . Although the timespan between the accident and Alonso returning to the car for first practice in Melbourne on March 13 would appear to be sufficient , he is not prepared to take any risks . Via his Twitter account , Alonso said : 'It will be tough not to be in Australia , but I understand the recommendations . A second impact in less than 21 days 'NO ' £countdownMalaysia . ' For the Albert Park event Alonso 's seat will now be occupied by Kevin Magnussen , demoted to reserve driver following the Spaniard 's arrival after a full season with the team in 2014 . A thrilled Magnussen , who will partner Jenson Button in Melbourne , tweeted : 'Shame about the circumstances but still I 'm so excited to be racing in Melbourne . Ca n't wait ! ! ' The 22-year-old Danish racer Kevin Magnussen will replace Alonso for McLaren at the Australian Grand Prix . To which a sporting Alonso replied : 'best of luck at the race mate ! £BelieveInMcLarenHonda . ' Explaining the circumstances behind the decision taken to withdraw Alonso from Australia , McLaren have revealed doctors found the 33-year-old to be 'asymptomatic ' , with 'no evidence whatsoever of any injury ' and 'entirely healthy from neurological and cardiac perspectives ' . But given the prospect of second-impact syndrome Alonso was 'advised he should not compete in the imminent Australian Grand Prix meeting ' . A McLaren statement added : 'Fernando has understood and accepted that advice . Fernando 's doctors acknowledge he feels fit and well , and he regards himself as ready to race . Medical staff arrived on the scene to give Alonso treatment at the side of the road after the accident . A helicopter was sent to pick up Alonso and taken him to hospital from Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya . Alonso was taken to hospital by helicopter after being involved in a crash at speeds of up to 150mph . 'That being the case they are comfortable with the fact he has already recommenced physical training , with a view to preparing for a return to the cockpit of his McLaren-Honda car for the Malaysian Grand Prix meeting on March 27 , 28 and 29 . 'Indeed , his doctors are supportive of that ambition , satisfied as they are that he sustained no damage whatsoever during his testing accident on February 22 . 'All at McLaren-Honda fully support Fernando 's decision in respect of his doctors ' advice . ' Double world champion Alonso has returned to McLaren for this season after spending the past five years with Ferrari , burying the hatchet with Group CEO Ron Dennis following an ignominious campaign with the team in 2007 .
Fernando Alonso was involved in a crash at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya . Alonso will miss the Australian Grand Prix on 29 after medical advice . Danish driver Kevin Magnussen will take Alonso 's place for McLaren . The details of Alonso 's injuries have not been fully disclosed . Alonso is currently recovering in Oviedo , where he was born .