Toro Rosso has confirmed that Alexander Albon won't be taking part in qualifying for Formula 1's Chinese Grand Prix following his practice crash.
The Anglo-Thai rookie crashed heavily at the final corner of the Shanghai Circuit in the closing stages of final practice, causing substantial damage to his STR14's chassis.
"Unfortunately, due to the extensive damage to the monocoque from his FP3 crash, Alexander Albon will not be able to take part in qualifying for the Chinese Grand Prix," confirmed the team.
Albon thumps into the wall as FP3 draws to a close
Great to see him walk away ðŸ‘
Toro Rosso will need a minor miracle to get the car ready for qualifying 😬#ChineseGP 🇨🇳 #Race1000 pic.twitter.com/guBKgi7AlH
— Formula 1 (@F1) April 13, 2019
The 23-year-old, who was cleared by the circuit's medical team after the accident, will therefore start at the very back of the grid on Sunday.
Toro Rosso had shown encouraging pace through the weekend with Albon ninth and team-mate Daniil Kvyat at the foot of the top 10.