Massa Escapes Injury after Heavy Crash

Brazilian Felipe Massa escaped injury following a heavy accident during today's Canadian Grand Prix.

Massa had the biggest crash of the race, his Sauber plunging into the tyre barrier in the closing stages of the race. The driver emerged shakily from the car, and despite being taken to hospital for a check-up, Massa was fine.

The team said they were still investigating the cause of the crash although he appeared to have lost his rear left wheel before the impact.

"I was having a strong race, after catching and passing Sato, Glock, Klien and da Matta, but I lost a lot of time in my first pit stop because of a problem with the left rear wheel," said Massa. "Later I also had some trouble with the steering wheel.

"As for the accident, I have no idea what happened - I was just a passenger. I'm okay and fortunate that the car is strong, and only went to the hospital for a precautionary check-up on my left elbow."

Italian teammate Giancarlo Fisichella finished in the points for the second race in succession, coming home in sixth place.

"I wasn't very quick getting off the line, but that was a blessing after Coulthard and Klien tangled right in front of me in Turn One," the Italian said. "I just managed to avoid both of them. After that I just settled down and kept pushing hard.

"The car was a little inconsistent at various stages of the tyre wear, but five or six laps before each pit stop it was very good and I was able to drive as if I was in a qualifying session. The last stint was the best. Our strategy was great today, and it is very satisfying to score yet more points today."