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Richie Stanaway says that the effects of a neck complaint that resurfaced at a recent test day played a role in a practice crash and necessitated medical treatment before qualifying.
Stanaway sought treatment from a chiropractor following the test and had hoped that the situation would be resolved for this weekend’s Supercars round.
Stanaway believes the incident was partly due to a recurrence of the neck issue.
“Unfortunately, the neck drama flared up again as soon as the track was drying out,” said Stanaway.
“It was pretty disappointing. I made the mistake to cause the incident, but a part of it was me not being able to concentrate.
“I was having to lean my head all the way out on the headrest. Obviously, I wasn’t paying attention to the car placement and went offline and cause the incident.”
Stanaway visited medical teams at the circuit where he received an injection and some treatment on his neck before Armor All Qualifying for this afternoon’s race.
The Kiwi, who thought he may not be able to continue, returned to the track and secured 18th on the grid.
“The team have done an amazing job to turn it around and get the car ready to go. Obviously, we haven’t had long between sessions,” he added.
“I’ve been to the doctor and had an injection as well as had some physio.
“Before I went off earlier in the session, I was pretty sure I wouldn’t be able to continue; it was pretty bad. Obviously, the fact I went off made the situation even worse.
“Since I had the jab and the physio, it seems to be fine now. I’ve also padded up my headrest so if I do lose the head strength, I’ve got the padding there (to support me).
“It’s not ideal, but I think the compromise is better than not driving at all. I’ve got to just deal with it and hopefully it won’t affect me too much in the car.”
Stanaway is set to line up on the grid for Race 13 which is scheduled to start at 1550 local time/AEST.
