Ralph Firman had a consultation with FIA Medical Delegate Professor Sid Watkins upon arrival at the circuit yesterday afternoon and it was decided that he should not participate in the Italian Grand Prix this weekend due to the residual effects of his accident at the Hungarian Grand Prix three weeks ago.

Jordan Ford has been given permission by the stewards of the meeting to replace Firman with Zsolt Baumgartner, who will drive car 12 for this round of the Formula One World Championship.

Firman will remain at the circuit until Saturday afternoon before returning home to continue his training programme in preparation for a test session at Silverstone on 17 and 18 September.

He said, "Although I feel extremely well and absolutely fit physically, I have an inner ear imbalance which prevents me from racing this weekend but Professor Watkins said it should be fine in time for testing and the last two races. I have returned to training and passed all the normal tests but I knew in myself this week that I had not recovered 100%. I think honesty is the best policy so I volunteered this to Professor Watkins and I accept missing a second race because it is vital to me that I finish the season as strongly as possible. Naturally I am very disappointed, but I am focusing solely on the remainder of this year and on having a stronger season in 2004."