F1 driver Fernando Alonso 'conscious' after cycling accident

Two-time F1 world champion taken to hospital after road accident in Switzerland

BAHRAIN, BAHRAIN - MARCH 31: Fernando Alonso of Spain and McLaren F1 looks on during the F1 Grand Prix of Bahrain at Bahrain International Circuit on March 31, 2019 in Bahrain, Bahrain. (Photo by Charles Coates/Getty Images)
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Spanish Formula One driver Fernando Alonso is conscious and awaiting medical tests after being involved in a road accident while cycling in Switzerland.

The double world champion, 39, is due to make his F1 comeback this season after two years out of the sport.

"Alpine F1 team can confirm that Fernando Alonso has been involved in a road accident while cycling in Switzerland," his team said..

"Fernando is conscious and well in himself, and is awaiting further medical examinations tomorrow morning."

Alonso won the drivers' title in 2005 and 2006.

His final season was with McLaren in 2018, but he is set to make his return with Alpine at the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix on March 28.

Italy's Gazzetta dello Sport  newspaper reported earlier that the Spaniard had been hit by a car while training on his bike near Lugano and was taken to hospital.

Alpine, formerly known as Renault and renamed after the French maker's sportscar brand, said there would be no further updates on Thursday.

The Gazzetta  reported that initial X-rays suggested possible fractures and questioned whether Alonso would be able to start the season.

He has won 32 F1 races, with 97 podium finishes.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez was one of many to post their support to Alonso on Twitter.

"Much strength and all the best wishes to Fernando Alonso," he said.

"We expect the injuries from this accident to be minimal. A big hug, @alo_oficial," he added.

"Just heard about my friend Fernando Alonso's accident, I wish him a speedy recovery," Yazeed Al-Rajhi, who raced against Alonso at the 2020 Dakar, posted.

"We are with you Fernando. Fuerza campeon (go champion)," Le Mans organisers, the FIA World Endurance Championship, said.

Alonso's return to the sport was announced in July 2020.

“Renault is my family, my fondest memories in Formula One with my two world championship titles, but I'm now looking ahead," Alonso, whose last race in F1 was the 2018 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, said at the time.

"It's a great source of pride and with an immense emotion I’m returning to the team that gave me my chance at the start of my career and which now gives me the opportunity to return to the highest level.

“I have principles and ambitions in line with the team's project.

"Their progress this winter gives credibility to the objectives for the 2022 season and I will share all my racing experience with everyone, from the engineers to the mechanics and my teammates.

"The team wants and has the means to get back on the podium, as do I.”