Herbert back in Formula One

Ken Tyrrell has made rather a mockery of Benetton’s claim that it was merely “resting” Johnny Herbert, to allow his leg injuries to heal without subjecting them to the punishment that is Formula One racing, by signing up the Englishman for the Belgian and possibly Portuguese and Japanese Grands Prix.

Herbert has yet to return to full fitness after his Brands Hatch Formula 3000 accident more than a year ago, but has nonetheless scored World Championship points on several occasions, including fourth place on his debut in Rio.

His Tyrrell call-up comes as a result of clashing commitments for Jean Alesi (himself a mid-season replacement for Michele Alboreto), who is also chasing this year’s International F3000 title.