F1 Safety Car driver Bernd Maylander found himself in a rather sticky situation after crashing the series’ specially prepared Aston Martin Vantage during a high-speed test on Thursday at Monza.
The incident brought an abrupt end to what was meant to be a routine systems check ahead of the weekend's racing action.
While the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, it appears that Maylander lost control of the car on his approach to Parabolica while completing a high-speed lap.
The Vantage F1 Edition vehicle skidded across the run-off area and gravel trap before hitting the barriers and wedging itself underneath the TecPro structure.
The incident caused significant damage to the car, but Maylander and his passenger were fortunately able to climb out unharmed. The FIA's medical car was immediately on the scene to provide assistance and transport the pair back to the pits.
Meanwhile, track officials set out to retrieve the stricken Aston Martin, a process that briefly interrupted the day's schedule but thankfully didn’t derail the overall preparations.
In response to the unexpected mishap, the FIA issued a statement downplaying any impact on the weekend's events.
"There was an on-track incident with the FIA Safety Car today at Monza," the statement read.
"Aston Martin is investigating the cause but can confirm both driver and passenger are fine. There is an additional Safety Car at the circuit, and it will not impact the weekend's event."
While it’s not every day that the safety car itself needs rescuing, the quick response and unflappable handling of the situation ensured that the Italian Grand Prix preparations continued without further hiccups.
As for Maylander, who has very competently exercised his Safety Car duties since 2000, the incident will likely serve as a humbling reminder that even the most seasoned drivers can have an off day, especially in the high-octane world of Formula 1.
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