The Ferrari mechanic who sustained a double leg fracture in a botched pit stop at the Bahrain Grand Prix has undergone successful surgery in hospital, and has thanked wellwishers for messages of support.
Francesco Cigarini was the left-rear wheel-on mechanic for Kimi Raikkonen’s second pit stop at the race, but the crew was unable to detach Raikkonen’s tyre from his car.
Cigarini was still in position, in front of Raikkonen’s still-affixed tyre, when the Finn was given the green light to depart the pit box.
Cigarini’s leg was struck by Raikkonen’s affixed left-rear tyre and he was sent crashing to the ground, where he was quickly tended to by his fellow mechanics and medics.
Ferrari confirmed in the aftermath of the incident that Cigarini had suffered a double fracture to his left leg, and he was transported to the nearby BDF Hospital.
“Surgery ok, I have to thank all the people worried for me,” Cigarini posted. “Nothing else, just a big thanks. Hugs!”
Raikkonen, who retired in the incident, commented: “What happened to our guy Francesco at the pit-stop is very unfortunate. I feel sorry for him and hope he's going to be OK soon.
“It's always a bad thing when someone gets injured but I am sure he has the best people taking good care of him and I wish him a speedy recovery.
“As for the accident itself, all I know is that I moved when I saw the green light go on.
“I couldn't have possibly realised that there was an issue with the rear left wheel, then I saw someone had got hurt and, immediately, I was told to stop by the team.
“Unfortunately something must have gone wrong and we'll need to find out what.”
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