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Laurence Edmondson, F1 Editor
Williams driver Franco Colapinto will take part in Saturday evening’s Las Vegas Grand Prix after passing a medical examination following his high-impact crash in qualifying.
Due to the forces involved in the accident, his participation was subject to a follow-up check Saturday to be declared fit to race.
Colapinto was attempting to earn a place in the top 10 on the grid Friday when his Williams clipped the barrier on the inside of Turn 16 and slammed into the barriers on the exit.
The impact registered over 50G and, although he walked away from the accident, medical staff at the circuit determined he should undergo a further examination Saturday before taking part in the race.
In a statement six-and-a-half hours before lights out in Las Vegas, Williams confirmed Colapinto’s participation.
“Following Franco’s incident in qualifying yesterday, he has undergone a thorough follow-up evaluation from the event medical team today and has been cleared to race in this evening’s Las Vegas Grand Prix,” the statement said.
“Franco’s health is our main priority, and we are relieved that he is well enough to race following such a significant incident. We thank the medical staff for prioritising Franco’s health and wellbeing and for the excellent care he received.”
Colapinto’s car was extensively damaged at both front and rear, but the team worked overnight to repair it in time for the race.
Due to setup changes on the car, Colapinto will sacrifice his 14th-place grid spot and start from the pit lane.
“We are extremely thankful to our incredible garage team for their hard work overnight to repair Franco’s car and our fans and partners for their continued support,” the statement added.
“We have taken the opportunity to make some setup changes during the repair and, as a result, Franco will start the race from the pit lane.
“We are looking forward to going racing under the lights tonight.”
The accident came just three weeks after Williams sustained millions of dollars’ worth of damage with three accidents across its two cars at the Brazilian Grand Prix.
Colapinto, who has impressed since replacing Logan Sargeant at the team at the Italian Grand Prix, does not yet have a place on the grid confirmed for 2025.
Source: www.espn.com