Alonso delays arrival in Brazil due to illness

McLaren driver Fernando Alonso has delayed his arrival in Brazil for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix due to illness.

The Spaniard was due to fly to Sao Paulo on Tuesday but has been advised by doctors to rest at home after coming down with a virus.

Alonso is expected to arrive in Brazil on Wednesday and will undergo a medical check-up before taking part in Friday's first practice session.

The 37-year-old is currently fifth in the drivers' championship, 19 points behind leader Lewis Hamilton.

He has been in good form in recent races, finishing on the podium in the last two grands prix in the United States and Mexico.

Alonso's absence from Brazil will be a blow to McLaren, who are fighting for fourth place in the constructors' championship with Renault.

The team will be hoping that Alonso can recover in time to take part in the race, which takes place on Sunday.