Robert Wickens and Harry Gottsacker celebrated their championship victory at the conclusion of the 2023 IMSA Pilot Challenge season. Wickens, unfortunately, experienced an accident at the Nurburging Nordschleife on Saturday and was transported to the hospital by helicopter for evaluation.
The incident took place during the middle of the four-hour endurance race when Wickens’ Hyundai Elantra N TCR crashed into the Armco barriers that line the 15-mile course. Eyewitnesses at the track reported the arrival of a medical helicopter at the accident scene, which then departed shortly after.
Bryan Herta Autosport provided a reassuring update on Wickens’ condition shortly after the crash. They shared the news on social media that Wickens was conscious and alert. They also mentioned that he was being taken to a nearby hospital for precautionary checks. Further updates will be provided as they become available.
Less than an hour later, BHA issued another update stating that Wickens would be spending the night in the hospital as a precautionary measure. The post mentioned that after thorough evaluation and clear scans, Wickens would remain in the hospital for overnight observations.
This race at the Nurburgring in Germany was Wickens’ first, and he was excited to tick another track off his bucket list. Despite being a paraplegic driver, Wickens has made a remarkable comeback to racing over the past three years. He drives a modified car that allows him to control the brake and throttle using hand controls.
Wickens felt well enough to share a statement on social media late Saturday evening, expressing his gratitude for the messages he received and thanking the medical team at the track and hospital for their care. He reassured everyone that he was feeling good and would rest under their supervision over the weekend. He expressed his eagerness to return to the track and resume his work with BHA.
Wickens, who suffered a severe IndyCar crash in 2018 resulting in a fractured spine and limited use of his lower extremities, is the reigning champion of the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge TCR Series. After years of rehabilitation, he made his debut in the championship in 2022. His determination to overcome adversity and return to racing has been an inspiration to many, and he still harbors hopes of racing in IndyCar again in the future.