Ford withdraws Sainz, Higgins

13 people were taken to hospital in Carmarthen but nine are expected to be released quickly.

In a statement issued at Rally HQ in Cardiff just before 7pm, the organisers confirmed that there are four people needing further treatment; two children aged 12 and 14 with lower limb injuries and two adults with head and back injuries respectively.

An obviously still shocked Sainz said this evening: "There was a crest that was our braking area but the road was so slippery that we couldn't stop the car. We slid into a car and some people, spectators or marshals, and we knew immediately that there were injuries.

"We reported what had happened to the team and the past four hours have not been very nice but I am happier to hear that the injuries are not as serious as we thought. Even so I am very sorry about what has happened."

European Director of Ford Racing, Martin Whitaker, added: "We are genuinely upset that spectators were injured in an accident involving one of our cars and, as a result, we have decided to withdraw from the event. We are keen to work with the authorities to understand what happened and why it happened."

Police have issued a contact number for anyone with family or friends visiting the event and who may be concerned. The number is 01267 232000.