Fernando Alonso has confirmed that he will compete at the Circuit of the Americas, ending fevered speculation about his fitness.
The Spaniard was reportedly struggling with a back injury following a crash with Jean-Eric Vergne in Abu Dhabi and it was rumoured that Jules Bianchi or Pedro de la Rosa was lined up by Ferrari as possible replacements.Late on Monday, however, Alonso dismissed the claims on his Facebook and Twitterprofiles, saying that he was busy getting ready to depart for Texas.
"Packing the bag for Austin," the two-time World Champion wrote.
"(I have) some pain still, but eager and confident to help the team. I will try to give 100 per cent as always!"
Ferrari President Luca di Montezemolo welcomed the news, adding that Alonso's dedication to the team has never been in doubt."I am pleased to see that Fernando is so keen to give it his all, even when he's not at his best," the Italian said."It shows how attached he is to us and I am sure that his example will be a further boost for the whole team in its efforts to end this season in the best way possible."