“Further to the accident involving the Marussia F1 Team’s Test Driver Maria De Villota this morning, the team can confirm that Maria was transferred by ambulance from Duxford Airfield, where the accident happened, to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.” said a statement issued by the Marussia F1 Team.
“Since Maria’s arrival at the hospital at approximately 10.45hrs this morning, she has been receiving the best medical attention possible at the hospital, which is the region’s major trauma centre. Maria is conscious and medical assessments are ongoing. The team will await the outcome of these assessments before providing further comment. The team’s first priority at this time is Maria and her family.”
At 9.15, Maria De Villota’s MR-01 is reported to have crashed into the tailgate of the team’s support truck at a speed of around 20-30mph. The height of the tail gate has resulted in unfortunate head trauma for the 32 year old. Testing was underway at the Duxford Airfield where she was testing the car for the first time.
There have also been unconfirmed reports that De Villota has been moved to a London hospital where she will operated on for a fractured skull, and a British newspaper has reported that doctors are battling to save sight in one of her eyes.
Some news sites have reported that the accident might have been the result of the anti stall mechanism on the Marussia which kicked in as De Vilotta entered the make shift pit area and was propelled into the stationery truck.
