Q&A WITH VODAFONE McLAREN MERCEDES DRIVER HEIKKI KOVALAINEN
Following his accident yesterday during the 2008 Spanish
Grand Prix, Vodafone McLaren Mercedes driver Heikki Kovalainen
was taken to the Hospital General de Catalunya in Sant Cugat
del Valles in Spain.
The team has established that Heikki’s speed was approximately
240km/h when the tyre deflated and about 130km/h when he hit
the tyre barrier. He experienced a 27g deceleration.
CT scans at the hospital confirmed that Heikki had no head
injuries and no broken bones but the Finn was kept in overnight
for observation.
This morning Heikki underwent further tests and scans which
all went positively and showed no problems. Consequently Heikki
will be released from hospital later today. He will then stay
in Spain for a few days relaxing before returning home to
start a light training programme.
How do you feel at the moment?
“I have a slight headache and a stiff neck, but apart
from that I am feeling well and in good spirits. 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.”
Do you remember anything from the accident?
“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.”
What do you think might have caused the accident?
“The team told me that the left front wheel rim might
have broken which could have lead to the sudden deflation
of the tyre. However we have to wait for further inspections
to be able to confirm the exact cause. What is especially
important is the fact that the monocoque withstood the heavy
impact, so credit should also be given to everyone at Vodafone
McLaren Mercedes for that.”
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