Jordan’s Ralph Firman is determined to be ready to test at Monza in just over a week’s time after being knocked unconscious in a crash in practice for the Hungarian Grand Prix on Saturday.
Jordan’s Ralph Firman is determined to be ready to test at Monza in just over a week’s time after being knocked unconscious in a crash in practice for the Hungarian Grand Prix on Saturday.
The rear wing of Firman’s Jordan car broke off and he crashed into a tyre wall. He was hospitalised after he lost consciousness. He also injured his heel. Zsolt Baumgartner replaced him in the race, becoming the first Hungarian driver in F1.
“I would like to be driving straight away,” said Firman. “I need all the testing I can get. There hasn’t been much all year and it would be a shame to lose out on it.
“I feel fine at the moment but we will have to see. I should be okay as long as I don’t have any delayed shock or anything. I am looking forward to Monza and because I don’t remember the impact it won’t be a problem.
“My left ankle is just badly bruised. It doesn’t hurt, but if you stand on it hurts. My neck is a bit sore but there’s no mobility problems, no swelling, nothing.”
Baumgartner qualified in 19th place, but retired on the 36th lap of the race with a blown engine. His team-mate Giancarlo Fisichella also retired. The Italian confirmed before the race that he was joining Sauber at the end of the season after signing a two-year contract.
“I met with Peter (Sauber) and technical director Willy Rampf and immediately had a positive feeling,” said Fisichella.
“The new wind tunnel, in particular, highly impressed me. It proves the team has a lot of potential and the will to be successful. I’m looking forward to my new challenge.”