Sergio Perez's participation in Friday's Indian practices is in doubt after the Sauber driver pulled out of media commitments on Thursday.
The Mexican driver has been a revelation this season, claiming three podium finishes on his way to tenth in the Drivers' Championship.
However, Perez looks set to start this weekend's Indian Grand Prix on the back foot after falling ill.
The 22-year-old withdrew from all commitments on Thursday with Sauber revealing that he has a cold.
The team told Reuters that a decision will be made on Friday as to whether he will be replaced by reserve driver Esteban Gutierrez in the practice sessions.
Gutierrez is one of the favourites to replace Perez permanently at Sauber next season.
