Sergio Perez's participation in the Indian grand prix is in doubt, after the Mexican failed to appear for his media commitments at the Buddh circuit on Thursday.
His team, Sauber, said the McLaren-bound Mexican has a heavy cold.
The Swiss squad's similarly Telmex-backed reserve driver Esteban Gutierrez, who is tipped to replace Perez full-time next season, is reportedly first in line to replace him.
Reuters and Sky said Sauber will decide early on Friday if Perez is well enough to drive.
