Alonso jaw-break accident took place outside a Lidl supermarket

Police in Switzerland have revealed Fernando Alonso's cycling accident took place outside a Lidl supermarket.

Alonso, who returns to Formula 1 this year with Alpine following a two-season break, was involved in the accident on Thursday afternoon in the Swiss city of Lugano.

It has been confirmed the two-time Formula 1 champion sustained a fracture to his upper jaw for which he has since undergone successful corrective surgery.

The cantonal police department of Lugano has now issued a statement as to how the accident transpired.

The statement read: "The cantonal police report that yesterday just before 2pm in Viganello, a 42-year-old Swiss motorist domiciled in the Lugano area was driving in via La Santa in the direction of Pregassona.

"According to an initial reconstruction, and for reasons the police investigation will have to establish, while making a left-turn manoeuvre to enter a supermarket parking lot, there was a collision with a 39-year-old Spanish citizen who was riding his bicycle passing a column of stationary vehicles in the opposite direction on the right.

"The collision occurred against the right side of the car.

"Cantonal police agents, supported by the police of the city of Lugano, as well as the rescuers of the Lugano Green Cross who, after providing initial care to the cyclist, transported him by ambulance to the hospital.

"The 39-year-old suffered a fractured jaw."

Alpine expect Alonso to make a full recovery that should not stop him from taking part in the single pre-season test at the Bahrain International Circuit from March 12-14.

An Alpine statement confirmed: "Following his cycling accident yesterday Fernando Alonso was kept under observation in hospital in Switzerland.

"Medics discovered a fracture in his upper jaw and conducted a successful corrective operation. The attending medical team are satisfied with his progress.

"Fernando will remain under observation in hospital for a further 48 hours.

"Looking forward, after a few days of complete rest, he will be able to progressively resume training. We expect him to be fully operational to undertake preparation for the season.

"Alpine F1 Team and Fernando thank you for your wishes and will issue further updates when appropriate."

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