Alonso injured in cycling accident - awaiting 'medical examinations'

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The Alpine F1 team has announced that Fernando Alonso was involved in an accident while cycling in Switzerland, revealing that the Spaniard is "conscious and well in himself".

The French outfit posted the news on its social media accounts but did not offer any details about the circumstances of the accident or Alonso's condition.

"Alpine Fl Team can confirm that Fernando Alonso has been involved in a road accident while cycling in Switzerland," the team said. "Fernando is conscious and well in himself and is awaiting further medical examinations tomorrow morning.

"Alpine F1 Team will not make any further statement at this point in time. Further updates will be given tomorrow."

Italy's La Gazzetta dello Sport reported that the accident occurred while Alonso was training near Lugano, alleging that the 39-year-old was hit by a car and may have suffered "possible fractures".

BBC F1 correspondent Andrew Benson reported on Twitter in the wake of the news that according to sources close to the driver, Alonso has suffered a broken jaw and is being transported to Bern to a special unit for such injuries.

After a two-year hiatus from F1, Alonso is scheduled to return to the fray with Alpine in just 28 days, when pre-season testing kicks off in Bahrain on March 12, while the 2021 F1 world championship will get underway at Sakhir on March 28.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.