Alex Zanardi is in a serious condition in intensive care after undergoing neurosurgery and maxillofacial surgery following a road accident on Friday.
Zanardi, 53, was competing in a handcycling event in his native Italy on Friday when he was involved in a traffic accident, with local media reporting that he collided with a truck.
The ex-F1 driver and two-time CART champion was airlifted to Siena’s Santa Maria alle Scotte University Hospital and was immediately assessed by medical staff.
The hospital confirmed that Zanardi was undergoing “a delicate neurosurgery intervention” for a “severe head trauma” and on Friday evening a further bulletin was issued.
“The management of health informs that the neurosurgery and maxillofacial surgery undergone by the athlete, due to the severe head trauma, began shortly after 19.00 and finished at 21.30,” read a statement.
“The patient was transferred to intensive care, with a reserved prognosis. His health is very serious.”
Formula 1 figures have sent messages of support to Zanardi, with Italy’s sole representative on the 2020 grid Antonio Giovinazzi writing: “Stronger than all. The strongest of all.
“You who have shown that there are no limits, only new opportunities. You who made it clear that living with a smile is more beautiful. We are all here waiting for the story of another, yet another, splendid victory.”
