FROM THE ENVIENT TO GEDDA. Clash at the start and two drivers in hospital: this is how the Formula 2 sprint race began on the Jeddah circuit, in Saudi Arabia, a side event for the F1 World Championship. Frenchman Theo Pourchaire had a problem and switched off his engine just as the traffic lights went out and all the cars started. Enzo Fittipaldi, Brazilian, great-grandson of the two-time champion Emerson, was unable to avoid it.
The impact was terrible. The cameras no longer filmed the area where the clash took place, the first indication that something serious has happened. Both pilots were taken to hospital in Jeddah and never lost consciousness. According to witnesses, while on the stretcher Pourchaire raised his thumbs to let people know he was fine. The conditions of Fittipaldi would be more serious due to the injuries to the legs that have made rescue operations more difficult.
According to the official statement of the FIA, «the two drivers were immediately rescued by medical and emergency personnel, they were conscious. Both were transferred by ambulance and helicopter to King Fahad Armed Forces Hospital ”.
The race resumed, but was interrupted by a new incident between Samaya and Caldwell. Nothing serious for the drivers, but the race was considered over. Oscar Piastri, the winner, is one step away from the Formula 2 title with one race to spare.