(SPEEDWAY, IN) – Alexander Rossi underwent successful outpatient surgery following a violent crash during Indianapolis 500 practice on Monday, sustaining minor injuries to a finger on his left hand and his right ankle.

Despite the severity of the wreck, the 2016 Indianapolis 500 winner remains in good spirits and intends to return to the track in time for final practice and the Indy 500.

During the practice session, Rossi in his No. 20 Java House Chevrolet lost control exiting Turn 2, slamming into the wall at high speed. His car was then struck by Pato O’Ward in his No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet to avoid the incident and spun into Rossi, with Romain Grosjean also collected in the incident. The impact ripped apart the left side of Rossi’s car and left visible marks on the aeroscreen, underscoring the violence of the crash.

Rossi was transported to a local hospital for evaluation, while O’Ward and Grosjean were checked and released shortly after.

Ed Carpenter Racing confirmed that Rossi underwent successful outpatient procedures to repair:

  • A minor injury to a finger on his left hand
  • A minor injury to his right ankle

He has no additional injuries, according to the team. His recovery is being overseen by INDYCAR Medical Director Dr. Julia Vaizer and the series’ medical staff.

Rossi has been seen with his leg elevated and wrapped, and his hand bandaged, but reports indicate he is progressing well.

Despite the crash and surgery, Rossi fully intends to:

  • Participate in Carb Day practice
  • Compete in the 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500

His team is preparing a backup car due to the extensive damage to his primary machine. Even so, Rossi will retain his front-row starting position, having qualified 2nd—his best-ever Indy 500 start.

While Rossi recovers, his crew faces a demanding turnaround to ready the backup car. The crash destroyed major components of the No. 20 Java House Chevrolet, requiring a full rebuild under tight time pressure.

Rossi’s crash highlights both the dangers of oval racing and the effectiveness of modern IndyCar safety systems:

  • The SAFER barrier absorbed much of the impact
  • The aeroscreen prevented O’Ward’s car from penetrating the cockpit area

These systems likely prevented far more serious injuries.

Original article
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