Wickens confirms paralysis after Pocono crash

Wickens confirms paralysis after Pocono crash

Originally written by Joas van Wingerden. This version is a translation.

Friday 26 October 2018 14:01

IndyCar racer Robert Wickens has confirmed he suffered paralysis to his legs as a result of the injuries suffered in his horrific crash at Pocono in August. Wickens suffered fractures to both legs, his spine and right arm after being violently pitched into a catch fence.

Wickens tagged wheels with the Andretti Autosport car of Ryan Hunter-Reay and went airborne into the perimeter wall before spinning violently back to the track via the fencing, which took two hours to be repaired.

Article continues under video

The Canadian was "alert and awake" as he was airlifted to hospital and has regularly posted video updates of his recovery.

Having shared a video of him moving his legs slightly, Wickens sent another update on Thursday, where he revealed that he was "a paraplegic".

Did my first slide transfer as a paraplegic today. My upper body is getting stronger everyday. I’ve only been posting videos of the small movement in my legs, but the reality is I am far away from walking on my own. I’ve never worked harder for anything in my life. More to come!! pic.twitter.com/lMw8XJgOck — Robert Wickens (@robertwickens) October 26, 2018

Wickens impressed in his debut IndyCar season, taking four podiums in his 14 races and earning Rookie of the Year, despite missing the final three events of 2018.

MORE: Hamilton responds to Rosberg's title comments
MORE: Is this what a Haas F1 car will look like in 2019?