Montoya to miss Bahrain Grand Prix
 |  Montoya is expected to return to action for the San Marino round next month. |
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LONDON, England -- McLaren's Juan Pablo Montoya will miss Sunday's Bahrain Grand Prix after sustaining a hairline crack in his shoulder while playing tennis last Saturday.
The Colombian, tied for third in the standings, is expected to return for the San Marino round on April 24, but it's an early blow to his world championship challenge.
McLaren's test driver Pedro de La Rosa of Spain will take his place at the weekend.
"Team McLaren Mercedes confirm that Juan Pablo Montoya is unable to take part in the 2005 Bahrain Grand Prix this coming weekend as a result of the injury he sustained while playing tennis during the Easter weekend," a statement from the team said on Wednesday.
The Colombian sustained the injury whilst playing tennis with his personal trainer in Madrid on Saturday.
"I'm obviously disappointed not to be able to race this coming weekend," said Montoya.
"However driving a Formula One car is hard work and it would be impossible to do with my injury and whilst its difficult, we have to follow the advice from the medical experts.
"I'm going to take it easy for a few weeks and cheer for the team in front of the TV.
"I'm already looking forward to getting back into action as soon as possible. At least its early in the season and a lot can happen, so I don't think my championship challenge is over."
Montoya, who joined McLaren from Williams at the start of the season, finished fourth in the Malaysian Grand Prix 10 days ago and is tied for third in the season's standings with eight points.
Reuters contributed to this report.
