Spectator Alonso to test again on Thursday

[davewilson]

McLaren's Fernando Alonso did not test at the Bahrain circuit on Wednesday, but the reigning world champion donned a set of headphones and watched from the pitwall as Ferrari continued to dominate. We revealed on Wednesday that the 25-year-old Spaniard, originally scheduled to return to Europe after day one of the final pre-season test, has opted to test again on Thursday after seeing the pace of main rival Ferrari's new Melbourne package. Alonso also watched from trackside at one point and took the opportunity of Massa's breakdown to cast an engrossed eye over the refitted and rapid F2007 contender, which again topped the time sheets. "Fernando will test on Thursday," a McLaren spokesperson confirmed, referring to the final day of running prior to the cars returning to Europe to be prepared for shipping to Australia. Also of note on Wednesday was the presence of Rubens Barrichello's sister, who watched from the shade of the Honda pits. Ralf Schumacher, meanwhile, explained that his back felt "fine" at the wheel of his Toyota on Wednesday after he sat out most of the day before with a slight injury. A statement issued by Super Aguri revealed that Takuma Sato lapped the Sakhir layout 100 times despite suffering from the 'flu. On Thursday, Williams and Spyker will similarly conclude their pre-season preparations back in Europe, after a three day test at the Circuit de Catalunya near Barcelona.

The Stig