Uncertainty over Colapinto taking part in the GP: 'Health is the priority'

After an initial update given by Williams, the team posted a video of James Vowles giving a statement on Franco Colapinto. The youngster was involved in a heavy crash in Q2. The British team principal said it is still unclear whether the driver will be ready to participate on Saturday evening in Las Vegas, but said that he has been released from the hospital.

The crash had an impact of 50G. "Which in any world is serious," Vowles said, who then also shared that Colapinto is back at the hotel resting. "He'll be assessed tomorrow and determined whether or not he is clear to race. In the meantime, his car is being repaired. The chassis will be changed, and we'll make sure it is ready, should Franco be fit to race tomorrow."

Long night for the Williams crew

In any case, the Williams team principal is not willing to risk putting Colapinto in a car if he is not declared fit. "What I will say is this, his health above all else is the priority. Carbon fibre can be repaired, metal and cars can be remade, but individual's health can't in that circumstances."

Meanwhile, the Williams crew are working hard behind Vowles, and a long night awaits them in Las Vegas. Should Colapinto be fit enough to start the Grand Prix, he would do so from the pit lane. Under parc fermé, replacing the chassis of an F1 car is not allowed without a penalty.

This article was written in collaboration with Ludo van Denderen

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