Junqueira, Foyt Sustain Injuries
Bruno Junqueira and Larry Foyt have sustained back injuries in today's Indianapolis 500, with Junqueira set to undergo surgery tomorrow
Junqueira had the most dramatic crash of the race, when he made contact on lap 78 while lapping AJ Foyt IV. the Brazilian spun to the right, and heavily hit the SAFER barrier in Turn 2, only to then spin to the right, before coming to a halt.
He was taken to the medical centre at the infield and then taken to Methodist Hospital for further checks. IRL and IMS senior director of medical service, Dr. Henry Bock, said Junqueira would require surgery.
"Bruno Junqueira has been diagnosed with a concussion and fractures of the T-12 and L-1 vertebrae that will require surgery on Monday," Dr. Bock said. "He is stable and in fair condition at Methodist Hospital."
Larry Foyt's crash happened earlier than Junqueira, and in fact prompted the first caution period of the race.
Foyt spun in Turn 1, the rear of his car making heavy contact with the SAFER barrier. He was taken to the medical centre in the infield, but after complaining of lower back pain, he was transported to Methodist Hospital for further evaluation.
Dr. Bock said Foyt "has been diagnosed with a chip fracture of the lower spine. He will be held overnight at Methodist Hospital for further evaluation."
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