STATEMENT: SAM SMITH

Update: 20:00 – 24 April 2023

The following statement is issued on behalf of the Vertu Motors MINI CHALLENGE and Hybrid Tune:

During the final race of the Vertu Motors MINI CHALLENGE event at Donington Park, Sam Smith (#42 Hybrid Tune) was involved in an incident at Redgate corner that also involved Dan Zelos (#45 EXCELR8 Motorsport).

Sam was extricated from his car by rescue teams before being taken to the circuit medical centre, where he was conscious and talking before being transferred by ambulance to Queen’s Medical Centre in Nottingham for further tests and evaluation.

Following a series of scans, Sam has been diagnosed with bruised lungs, a broken rib and fractured vertabrae, and is due to be discharged this evening (24 April) to return home and continue his recovery.

Despite the nature of the incident, Sam remains in a positive frame of mind and is already planning his return to the grid when medically cleared to do so.

Both the MINI CHALLENGE and Hybrid Tune would like to place on record thanks to the marshals, rescue team and medical staff for the way in which they dealt with the incident at the circuit, as well as to the team at Queen’s for their care.

A full investigation into the cause of the incident is ongoing with the support of various championship suppliers and partners.

Update: 08:30 – 25 April

Despite initial hopes of being released on Monday evening, Sam remained in hospital overnight ahead of meeting with a neurologist today (25 April).

Update: 21:30 – 25 April

Sam Smith has now been released from hospital and will continue his recovery at home.