Wurz has long-awaited knee op

Wurz was told to have the surgery after the United States Grand Prix, but the Austrian was reluctant to miss the last two Grands Prix of the season in Japan and Malaysia.

"I should have had this done a month ago," said Wurz, "but it is simply not possible to drop out for four weeks during the season. It's a bit scary: I go into hospital upright and walking, and I will leave on crutches."

Wurz endured a torrid season driving for the Benetton team this year, his only points finish being fifth place in the Italian Grand Prix. The 26-year-old is being replaced at the Enstone-based team by Jenson Button for 2001 and has signed as test driver for McLaren-Mercedes.

Wurz visited his new team's factory last week and was impressed by McLaren's facility in Woking. The Austrian had a seat fitting in preparation for winter testing in December. He is confident the operation will not affect his testing commitments.

"I will push to recover quickly and without a doubt I will be fit before December," he said.