Red Bull Racing driver Mark Webber has been seriously injured and hospitalised after colliding with a car while taking part in a bike challenge on the Tasmanian Peninsula.
The Australian was taking part in his own charity challenge, the Mark Webber Pure Tasmania Challenge when he hit a 4WD Nissan near the historic Port Arthur Township.
He sustained multiple fractures to his arms and legs and was airlifted to the Royal Hobart hospital, where he has been kept in a stable condition.
“At 12.40pm we received reports of a collision between a bicycle and a motor vehicle on the Fortescue Bay Road on the Tasman Peninsula,” said Sergeant Jon Ford, of Tasmania Police, according to reports.
“The collision was initially attended by paramedics attached to the event. He was airlifted from the scene by helicopter and taken to the Royal Hobart Hospital where he is now being treated for serious but not life-threatening
“He suffered a broken leg and other injuries and is reported to be in a stable condition.”
Webber’s Challenge Media Manager Nancy Cook told autosport that the incident was only a “minor accident”:
“Mark’s been involved in a minor accident, he’s fine,” said cook. “He’s being treated, he’s really disappointed that he’s not going to be able to continue but he’s well and being looked after.”
Webber’s injuries will likely keep him out of action for the remainder of the year and could jeopardise his preparations for the 2009 Formula One season.
With thanks to autosport
