Burti Expected to Leave Hospital on Tuesday

Brazilian Luciano Burti is expected to leave the Liege hospital next Tuesday, according to his doctor Gary Harstein.

"I think Burti will be prepared to leave on Tuesday at least physically and clinically," Harstein said. "Luciano needs to be 100 per cent again, as he was before the accident, before he goes back racing. The worst thing you can do a driver is anticipate your return too early."

The Prost team announced on Saturday Burti will not take part at next weekend's Italian Grand Prix, leaving the French outfit to make a frantic bid to replace him. The 26-year old is still in hospital recovering from his heavy crash at last weekend's Belgian Grand Prix, in which he sustained bruising to the head.

Burti has dismissed reports that he will not compete in the final two races of the season, though the Brazilian is not yet sure when his return to racing will take place.

"I need people to understand the moment I am living right now and that I am still not ready to say when I will be back racing," Burti said. "I have not even been discharged from hospital. Only after leaving here will I be able to inform people of my decision."

Team owner Alain Prost is currently looking at a number of possibilities, including several experienced former Formula One drivers. Czech Tomas Enge was drafted in for a test drive following the Belgian race, and looks to be a favourite to fill Burti's seat next weekend.