Robert Wickens and Harry Gottsacker celebrated their championship win at the end of the 2023 IMSA Pilot Challenge season. Unfortunately, Wickens was involved in an accident at the Nurburgring Nordschleife on Saturday and was airlifted to the hospital for evaluation.
The incident occurred during the four-hour endurance race, when Wickens’ Hyundai Elantra N TCR collided with the Armco barriers lining the 15-mile track. Eyewitnesses at the track reported the arrival of a medical helicopter at the accident site, which departed shortly thereafter.
Bryan Herta Autosport provided a reassuring update on Wickens’ condition shortly after the accident. They shared the news on social media that Wickens was conscious and alert. They also mentioned that he was being taken to a nearby hospital for precautionary exams. Further updates will be provided as they become available.
Less than an hour later, BHA issued another update informing that Wickens would be spending the night at the hospital as a precautionary measure. The post mentioned that, following a thorough evaluation and clear exams, Wickens would remain in the hospital for overnight observation.
This race at the Nurburgring in Germany was Wickens’ first, and he was excited to tick another track off his list. Despite being a paraplegic driver, Wickens has made a remarkable comeback to racing in the past three years. He drives a modified car that allows him to control the brake and accelerator using manual controls.
Wickens felt well enough to share a statement on social media on Saturday night, expressing his gratitude for the messages he received and thanking the track and hospital medical team for their care. He reassured everyone that he was feeling good and would rest under their supervision during the weekend. He expressed his eagerness to get back on track and resume his work with BHA.
Wickens, who suffered a serious accident in the IndyCar in 2018 resulting in a fractured spine and limited use of his lower limbs, is the current champion of the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge TCR series. After years of rehabilitation, he made his championship debut in 2022. His determination to overcome adversity and return to racing has been an inspiration to many, and he still hopes to race in the IndyCar again in the future.
