Ralf out, Zonta in [updated].

Following his practice crash at Indianapolis on Friday, Toyota driver Ralf Schumacher has not been cleared to race this weekend in the US Grand Prix meaning that reserve driver Ricardo Zonta steps into the breach.

Ralf's crash was very similar to the one he suffered at the circuit in 2004, but this time the German had the benefit of a SAFER barrier to arrest the impact, and he walked away.

Following a medical check and brain scan, Schumacher arrived at the circuit on Saturday hoping to get the all-clear from the race medical officials, but was denied the opportunity to race as a precautionary measure.

"This news is obviously very disappointing for myself and for the team," the German commented, "I wish the team all the best for the rest of the weekend and I'm confident that I will be back in time for this month's French Grand Prix."

Toyota team principal Tsutomu Tomita insisted that Schumacher stepping down was a precautionary measure.

"Obviously Ralf is disappointed that he cannot race this weekend but, after considering the recommendation of the FIA's medical team, we have decided to put Ricardo Zonta into the car for the remainder of the weekend," he said, "We want to reassure you that this is a precautionary measure and we are confident that Ralf will be able to participate at this month's French Grand Prix."

For Zonta, while regrettable, the driver swap sees him return to a race cockpit for the first time since the last race of the 2004 season.

"Yesterday's events mean this is not an ideal situation for the whole team, and I'm especially sorry for Ralf," he admitted, "Of course, I'm glad to be back with a chance to race the car but, on the other hand, it's a very difficult situation. But I have been called up to race once before on a Saturday with a previous team, so I will try to make the most out of the rest of the weekend."