Photo: Supercars

Simona De Silvestro undergoes surgery ahead of Bathurst return

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Simona De Silvestro is still expected to make her return to the Bathurst 1000 despite undergoing emergency surgery in her native Switzerland.

De Silvestro was due to fly to Australia this week to prepare for her outing with Dick Johnson Racing in the biggest event on the Supercars calendar, with the former Nissan racer having inked a deal to partner rookie Kai Allen in a third car entered under the Shell V-Power Racing banner.

With the pair having been due to take part in a test at Queensland Raceway next week, the team will now revise its plans ahead of the Bathurst outing.

“Simona De Silvestro was due to land in Australia later this week ahead of wildcard testing at Queensland Raceway on the 4th and 5th of September,” a statement from the team said.

“However due to an emergency operation required to remove her appendix over the weekend, her arrival date in Australia has been pushed back.

“Simona is recovering well in Switzerland and at this stage is anticipated to join the team in Australia in mid-September. Alternative plans are being arranged for wildcard testing ahead of the Repco Bathurst 1000.

“The Shell V-Power Racing Team wishes Simona a speedy recovery and looks forward to seeing her soon.”