Australian GP: Valtteri Bottas may not race after back injury

Williams driver Bottas impressed last year with a number of podium finishes

Williams driver Valtteri Bottas's participation in the Australian Grand Prix is in doubt after he suffered a back problem during qualifying.

The Finn, who qualified sixth, said he first felt the problem during the second knock-out part of qualifying.

Bottas then ran wide over a kerb in final qualifying, exacerbating his discomfort.

Bottas said: "The team and I felt it sensible to get it checked at the local hospital and we await their diagnosis."

Australian GP qualifying results

Australian GP coverage details