Ericsson fit to drive after 320kph practice crash

The FIA medical delegate confirmed on Saturday morning Marcus Ericsson is fit to drive following his huge crash during practice at Monza yesterday.

Ericsson lost control of his Sauber at over 320kph after his Drag Reduction System failed to close on the approach to turn one early in the first practice session.

Formula 1 rules require that any driver who suffers a severe accident must undergo a medical check before continuing in the competition.

Sauber is making further changes to its Drag Reduction System ahead of today’s practice and qualifying sessions. The team broke the paddock curfew restriction last night for the first time this year, which each team may only do two per season without receiving a penalty. A new chassis for Ericsson was approved by the race scrutineers this morning.

Ericsson left the paddock following the crash yesterday, as Sauber team principal Frederic Vasseur explained: “He went to the medical centre straight after the accident and then he was released.

“He came back to the hospitality and he went back to the hotel just to have a rest but so far it’s OK.”

In a statement released by the team yesterday Ericsson said he is looking forward to driving again: “The accident I had in FP2 was a big impact – thanks to the strength of the car I am alright.”

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