Formula 1 star Gabriel Bortoleto is ‘ok and uninjured’ following his terrifying crash at the Brazilian Grand Prix on Saturday.
Lando Norris took victory in the Sao Paulo sprint race and extended his championship lead to nine points after rival and teammate Oscar Piastri crashed out.
The damp conditions at Interlagos caused havoc for the drivers, with Franco Colapinto spinning off at the same corner as Piastri just moments after.
But it was on the last lap of the sprint where the most terrifying crash occurred as hometown hero Bortoleto attempted to overtake Alex Albon at the first corner.
His Sauber appeared to hit a wet patch before snapping and smashing into the pitwall at top speed before skidding across the circuit.
The ferocity of the crash caused Bortoleto to go airborne and fly into the barriers, completely destroying his car, with his steering coming off and leaving debris all over the track.
The shunt was incredibly scary, shocking commentators, fellow drivers and the fans in the grandstands.
Thankfully and remarkably, the Brazilian came onto the radio to tell his team he was ‘ok’ and was able to get out of the wreck and into the medical car unaided.
The 21-year-old, competing in his rookie F1 season, was taken to the medical centre but less than an hour later, he seemed perfectly fine as he sprinted down the pit-lane.
Over an hour after the crash, Sauber posted an update on their driver: ‘Following precautionary checks at the circuit’s Medical Centre, we are pleased to report that Gabriel Bortoleto is ok and uninjured.
‘The team would like to thank the circuit marshals, F1 and the FIA and the Medical Centre staff for their superb care. The team will now focus on preparing the cars for this afternoon’s qualifying session.’
It remains to be seen whether or not Sauber can repair Bortoleto’s car in time for Saturday’s qualifying before the main race on Sunday at 5pm UK time.
More to follow…
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