McLaren driver Heikki Kovalainen will leave hospital on Monday evening following his accident in Sunday’s Spanish Grand Prix. Kovalainen will stay in Spain for a few days’ relaxation, before returning home to start a light training programme in preparation for the next race in Turkey.
The Finn was taken to the Hospital General de Catalunya in Sant Cugat del Valles immediately following the crash, where CT scans confirmed he had no head injuries and no broken bones. He was kept in overnight for observation, but further tests and scans on Monday morning all went positively and showed no problems.
“I have a slight headache and a stiff neck, but apart from that I am feeling well and in good spirits,” said Kovalainen. “My focus is on getting better as soon as possible so I can pass the FIA medical inspection required to allow me to race in Turkey.
“I don’t remember anything from the accident or what happened afterwards but would obviously like to thank all the circuit emergency staff, the FIA medical team at the track and the doctors at the hospital for all their efforts in looking after me. Also thank you for all the messages I have received - they all mean a lot.”
McLaren have established that Kovalainen’s speed was approximately 240km/h when his front-left tyre deflated and about 130km/h when he hit the tyre barrier. He experienced a 27g deceleration. The team suspect a wheel-rim failure was to blame, but have yet to establish the exact cause.
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