A piece of debris that could have changed everything

Heikki Kovalainen stated that he was in good health after his accident in Barcelona and hopes he will be able to compete in the Istanbul race in Turkey.

The Finn was taken to the hospital after crashing at over 230 km/h into the tire wall during the 22nd lap of the Catalan race.

Kovalainen remained under observation last night at the hospital even though no fractures or head problems were found.

The McLaren driver underwent another examination this morning, and since everything was fine, he was able to be discharged in the afternoon.

« I have a slight headache and a stiff neck, but apart from that, I feel fine, » Kovalainen said on Monday.

« My goal is to get better as soon as possible so that I can take the FIA medical exam necessary for me to be present at the race in Turkey. »

He added: « The team told me that the rim of the left front wheel broke which led to a sudden drop in pressure. But we still need to wait for the results of new inspections to be able to confirm the exact cause. »

« What is important is the fact that the single-seater withstood the crash. This fact should reassure everyone at Vodafone McLaren Mercedes. »

The British team indeed thinks that the accident is due to a debris or a stone that may have entered inside the wheel.

Kovalainen, who was unconscious at one point, admitted not remembering the accident.

« I do not remember the accident itself or what happened afterwards. I want to thank all the teams who rescued me, the FIA medical team on the track, and the doctors at the hospital. »

« I also thank you for all the messages I received. It means a lot to me, » concluded the former Renault driver.