Carlos Sainz has been cleared to drive at the Russian Grand Prix, just 24 hours after a heavy crash saw him airlifted to hospital.

Toro Rosso driver Sainz brought the final practice session to a premature end on Saturday as he lost control of his car on the entry to turn 13 in Sochi and slammed into the barriers.

Sainz missed qualifying to undergo medical checks but it was later revealed by the team that scans had detected no injuries.

The Spaniard was scheduled to remain in hospital overnight, although he left on Saturday evening, saying: "My back and my neck are just a bit sore from the accident, but I'm totally ready"

After Sainz passed an FIA medical on at the circuit on Sunday, a decision was taken that the 21-year-old would race.

A brief statement on Formula One's official website read: "Stewards have given Sainz permission to race despite not setting a qualifying time, and Toro Rosso have confirmed he will participate.

"With his rebuilt car featuring a new gearbox, he is expected to start from the pit lane."