Huge post race blaze cuts Williams celebrations short – Formula 1 news
Williams’ victory celebrations were cut short by a huge blaze that lit in the garage of the team soon after the conclusion of the Spanish Grand Prix on Sunday, May 13, 2012.
The pit lane was shrouded in acrid smoke as the Williams team members tried to run as far away from the affected area as possible. The fire fighters rushed in to tackle the fire while it was reported at least 31 members were affected by the fire and 7 had
to be hospitalised.
FIA also confirmed that 31 members required medical attention. The reason behind the blaze was the fuel left in the garage as shown in the television footage. A number of teams reacted to help others in the caught in the fire. Only three were serious enough
to stay at the hospital on Sunday evening.
“After today's Spanish Grand Prix a fire occurred in the team's garage which originated from the fuel area. Four team personnel were injured in the incident and subsequently taken to the medical centre. Three are now receiving treatment at local hospitals
for their injuries, while the fourth has been released. The team will monitor their condition and ensure they receive the best possible care,” Williams team manager Dickie Stanford said. “The team, the fire services and the police are working together to determine
the root cause of the fire and an update statement will be released in due course.”
Sir Frank Williams was also with the team celebrating Pastor Maldonado’s victory and was quickly removed from the garage. He then later on stated that he was fine.
Caterham also made a statement soon after the fire was controlled and said that the team’s employees have all been found safe and sound and only four people were taken to the hospital for further checkups.
The FIA has collaborated closely with the Spanish authorities to investigate the incident further and will be providing further information regarding the matter when it becomes available to them.
It was an unfortunate scene after such an exciting race. It disrupted what was supposed to be a night of celebrations for the Williams camp and Maldonado in particular. Williams though have said while it is an unfortunate accident, they are happy that no
one is seriously hurt.
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