Ryan Hunter-Reay’s participation in the ABC Supply 500 at Pocono Raceway is in doubt after he was hospitalised following a heavy crash during qualifying.
Hunter-Reay’s Andretti Autorsport Honda began to wiggle through Turn 3 as he completed the warm-up lap for his qualifying run, before spinning up to the wall and making hard contact on driver’s left.
The car then slid down the track and took a secondary impact to the same side on the inside wall.
While Hunter-Reay was helped out of the car and to a waiting ambulance before being taken to the circuit medical centre and then onto a hospital offsite.
Hunter-Reay has since been released from hospital according to a statement issued by IndyCar, but will be examined again on Sunday morning (local time) before a decision is made about his fitness to drive.
“Verizon IndyCar Series driver Ryan Hunter-Reay was evaluated at Lehigh Valley Hospital – Cedar Crest in Allentown, Pennsylvania, on Saturday for injuries to his left hip and knee sustained in a crash in qualifying for the ABC Supply 500 at Pocono Raceway,” read the statement.
“Hunter-Reay was treated and released but has not been cleared to drive, pending a re-evaluation Sunday morning.”
Hunter-Reay explained that the incident surprised him, and expressed his desire to take part in the race as he attempts to break into the top 10 in the championship (currently 12th).
“During qualifying today, out of nowhere, the car stepped out on me,” said Hunter-Reay.
“It was a bit of a wiggle, which I caught. The second time it happened, it came with no warning, which is a bit confusing.
“I hit my hip pretty bad as well as my knee, so the doctors thought it would be best to go in for further evaluation.
“After a CT scan and MRI, I am able to go and get a good night’s sleep. I’m sure I’ll wake up sore, but will hopefully be able to get back in the DHL machine tomorrow.
“I know the entire Andretti Autosport team worked hard to get the car put back together and with 500 miles, there is still a chance to win from the back of the field.
“I can’t thank the Holmatro Safety Team enough for their quick response along with the medical staff at IndyCar, Pocono and Lehigh Valley Hospital – Cedar Crest. Also, thank you to the fans for reaching out with their support.”
CLICK HERE for Speedcafe.com’s earlier qualifying report.
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