Robert Wickens was involved in an accident at the Nurburging Nordschleife on Saturday, and was flown to hospital via helicopter for evaluation.
The crash occurred approximately halfway through the four hour endurance race, with Wickens’ Hyundai Elantra N TCR reportedly crashing over the Armco barriers that line the 15 mile course.
People at the track reported seeing a medical helicopter arrive on the scene of the accident, and then take off again shortly after.
Bryan Herta Autosport provided an update to Wickens’ situation a short time after the crash, posting the relieving news to social media that he was conscious and alert.
“Robert Wickens was involved in an accident today at the halfway point of the NLS 1 race at Nürburgring in Germany.
“Robert is conscious and alert and has been transported to a nearby hospital for precautionary checks. We will provide further updates when they become available.”
Less than an hour later, BHA gave a further update stating that he was staying the night in hospital, but only for precautionary reasons.
“After further evaluation at hospital, scans are complete and clear,” read the post. “Robert will stay in hospital overnight for precautionary observations.”
The event was Wickens’ first race on the Nurburgring in Germany, and he was excited to check another track of his bucket list.
The paraplegic driver has returned to racing over the past three years, and drives a modified car that allows him to operate the brake and throttle with hand controls.
Wickens was feeling well enough to post a statement of his own to social media late Saturday evening, reaffirming his good health and desire to get back behind the wheel soon.
“Appreciate everyone’s messages today. Thank you to the medical team at the track and here at the hospital for their care.
“I’m feeling good and will get some rest here under their supervision this weekend. I’m eager to get to the track and get back to work with BHA.”
Wickens is the reigning champion of the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge TCR Series, contesting the championship starting in 2022 following years of rehabilitation from a horrific IndyCar crash in 2018.
Competing as a rookie, the Canadian was thrown into the catch fence at Pocono Raceway, which left him with a fractured spine and limited use of his lower extremities.
His determination to get back behind the wheel of a race car has been an inspiration to many, and he still hopes to race in IndyCar again in the future.
