Illness forces Irvine out

Eddie Irvine will not compete at the Austrian GP

Britain's Eddie Irvine has pulled out of the Austrian Grand Prix after complaining of abdominal pains.

The Jaguar driver won last year's race with Ferrari, but finished in 21st place in the first practice session and had complained of feeling unwell since arriving to prepare for the race.

Eventually he was advised to pull out by surgeons at the A-1 Ring's Medical Centre. The 34-year-old has flown back to England to see a London surgeon for a more complete diagnosis.

Jaguar's chairman, Neil Ressler, said: "Having taken the advice of the surgeons here in Austria, Eddie has flown back to England to undergo further tests so a fuller diagnosis can be given.

"It was the opinion of the medical team that given the discomfort he was in there was little point in him continuing this weekend.

"Our priority is to ensure that Eddie returns to full health as quickly as possible."

Brazilian Luciano Burti, who is Jaguar's official test driver, will take Irvine's place for Sunday's race.