149 replies to this topic

[cosmoK]

Oh God this is really terrible.

Stay strong Alex. We're all praying for you.

[Ricardo F1]

Saturday September 15 1:44 PM ET
Zanardi Loses Both Legs After Crash
Photos
By STEPHEN WADE, AP Sports Writer

KLETTWITZ, Germany (AP) - Two-time CART champion Alex Zanardi lost both of his legs after his car was hit by another traveling about 200 mph Saturday during the American Memorial 500.

CART officials described the 34-year-old Italian's condition as ``stable'' and said he lost one leg above the knee and one below. He was airlifted to a Berlin hospital for surgery.

........

[The Swerve]

I find this incredibly upsetting. I can't really post anything more.

[tim]

From Atlas:

Quote

Italian driver Alex Zanardi has lost both his legs following a horror accident during today's CART race at the American Memorial 500 in Germany.

Zanardi's car was destroyed after Alex Tagliani crashed into him at more than 320 km/h. Zanardi had just come out of the pits and spun, his car stopping in the middle of the track.

According to CART officials, 34-year old Zanardi has lost one leg above the knee and the other one below it. Despite the injuries, the Italian is said to be in "stable" condition and is to undergo surgery in Berlin.

This is simply terrible news. One of my favourite drivers, a nice a man as you could ever meet has been seriously injured. My thoughts go out to Alex and his family. A shitty week for mankind has been made even worse.

This is a terrible way to mark CART's foray into Europe and I hope that they don't decide to stop coming over here. I'm sure Alex will want the show to go on.



We all love you Alex! Hang in there, we're all thinking of you...

[Arrow]

That is simply horrible news.
His legs must of been terribly injured to lose them,since doctors can do incredible things these days.
What a tragic mistake that spin turned out to be:(

[ehagar]

Horrible news...

[Jhope]

That track is cursed

Alboreto - dead
Track Marshall - dead
Alex Zanardi - Crippled

I hope F1 never goes there...

here's to you Alex.

[zooropa21]

Our thoughts are with you Alex. I'm a glad there are still signs of hope. When I saw that accident this morning I thought that was it. Tagliani's collision speed seemed unreal even in slow motion.

Zooropa21

[slick1jayj]

I am at a loss for words.

[KenC]

My best wishes and prayers go out to both Alexes and their families, particularly Alessandro. It was a terrible crash, highly reminiscent of Villeneuve t-boning Hiro Matsushita at Phoenix back in the mid-90s.

I know these cars are constantly made safer, but there does seem to be a weak point in the tub, as both Zanardi's and Gidley's tub failed, though Gidley's was a Lola and Zanardi's a Reynard. Granted these were both huge hits, but it seems that stronger tubs are in order.

[Mario]

I am tired of seeing drivers being killed in this series. The Lausitzring was hardly safe as a road course. This is an incredibly awful day for race fans. My prayers are with Alex and his family however I can't help but feel anger towards CART for running these incredibly dangerous oval races. One of the nicest guys has lost both of his legs and is struggling to survive

[ehagar]

Driver can be killed in any series. Unfortunately, it seems like death is a more common occurence in the last 3 years of F-1, CART, Nascar....


I don't think you can design a racecar to withstand that kind of shear, just about any car being hit like that would have catastrophic results. It could happen on any oval at any time...

I suppose it could happen on a road course too if the circumstances were unusually bad.

Been a pretty bad week.

[AyePirate]

I woke up early this afternoon (my usual insomnia has been
aided and abetted, by living a few miles from the front so
last night my system "crashed" and I slept 13 hours straight last night) a little out of sorts. I had a terrible nightmare that
I had lost both my legs. I guess too much negative imagery
can do that. Then I turn on the tv and hear about Alex.
Fecking Hell, I am physically ill. This is terrible. Allesandro
is the salt of the earth, one of the good guys and this
happens. What a **** week.


Keep fighting AZ:cry:

[EVL29]

KenC...Both the Gidley and Zanardi crashes were MAJOR.The ChampCar Tubs are already stronger than an F1 car(which accounts for some of the extra weight in a ChampCar).
How much stronger can they make the Monocoque?
I think the reason you're less likely to see this type of Car damage in F1 is the quality of the Tracks(run-off room etc.).
The Monocoques are probably as strong as they know how to make them,but neither series cars are perfect...ask MS.

[RAD]

That was a harrowing crash. I will miss Alex, I just hope he can return to a pain free life soon.

[rdrcr]

Christ what else!?!??!

What a traumatic week... then to have this tragedy strike again in my sport, my haven for thrills and excitement, my passion...

That was a bad a crash as it can get... nearly a 200 mph impact. To have this happen is just awful... He must be in pretty bad shape... I pray that he survives his injuries.



:( :( :(

[diego]

Let's pray for Alex and his family. He did not deserve this cruel injury.

I have been an auto racing fan for 30 years, but this is it for me. I will not watch races anymore. Senna, Moore, Petty, Earnhardt, Alboreto... and this terrible injury to Zanardi now... I know that without the possibility of death racing would not be so exciting but it is just not worth it.

[msarmiento]

I'm so sorry. I hope he is better than we expect, he is such a great guy. I have no words......

[Pacific]

Pain free life...I'm not certain I'm any happier that Alex is alive. It's hard enough to see Sam Schmidt in his wheel-chair for every IRL race...seeing Alex with no legs...that's why, all said, I'm happy that instead of being vegetables, Dale, Adam, and Kenny are dead. Seeing Alex...

I've talked about this sort of thing with people, and my whole life revolves around hockey and weightlifting, and if I had the time, racing games on the computer with my wheel and pedal set. If I were to lose my legs or the use of them...I'd rather be dead. I'm not the kind of person just happy to be here (Earth/alive). Seeing Alex confined to a wheelchair is going to be VERY hard, because us CART fans really came to like Alex in his first CART tour. I mean, I liked Alex some because he raced in F1, that's how I am with all F1 transfers to CART.

So, I hope that what I've said isn't taken the wrong way, but it'd be easier for me if Alex had died, instead of getting to see him as a paraplegic. Makes me happy that Davey Hamilton's legs were salvagable or Johnny Herbert's ankles and feet...well, sort of his ankles. The same is true of Davey Hamilton. I suspect that Hamilton's career is over though. I was pissed when Roberto "Hazard" Guerrero wrecked Alessandro Zampedri in the first IRL Indy 500 on the last lap. Zampedri was injured pretty bad and lost some toes. Guerrero has been incompetent ever since he had that coma after his big wreck.

So...I'm not sure in which direction to pray for Alex.

Great start for CART in Europe. CART's not going to make it. That's the way it looks. They're PAYING to have their races shown, they've lost Greg Moore, Gonzalo Rodriguez, and now we have Zanardi. (And of course Jeff Krosnoff, but that was before CART was going down hill) If CART exists in 10 years I'll be surprised.

[Ricardo F1]

Pacific - it's a bit early to tell, prosthetics have come a long way. Hopefully Alex can recover and have Magic Legs, a la Captain Dan. I'm happy he's alive and I'm sure he and his family are too. Life is what you make it.

[Spunout]

According to latest news he is no longer in critical condition. I´m afraid there are no more good news, earlier reports were correct and in addition to losing both legs he has a fractured pelvis. Let´s hope the surgery will be succesful.

[Captain Cranckcase]

Pray he makes it. Hes got a kid I'm sure he wants to see his son grow up. With medical science today he'll have prosthtic legs so he could walk.

[JayWay]

Quote

Originally posted by Pacific
Pain free life...I'm not certain I'm any happier that Alex is alive. It's hard enough to see Sam Schmidt in his wheel-chair for every IRL race...seeing Alex with no legs...that's why, all said, I'm happy that instead of being vegetables, Dale, Adam, and Kenny are dead. Seeing Alex...

I've talked about this sort of thing with people, and my whole life revolves around hockey and weightlifting, and if I had the time, racing games on the computer with my wheel and pedal set. If I were to lose my legs or the use of them...I'd rather be dead. I'm not the kind of person just happy to be here (Earth/alive). Seeing Alex confined to a wheelchair is going to be VERY hard, because us CART fans really came to like Alex in his first CART tour. I mean, I liked Alex some because he raced in F1, that's how I am with all F1 transfers to CART.

So, I hope that what I've said isn't taken the wrong way, but it'd be easier for me if Alex had died, instead of getting to see him as a paraplegic. Makes me happy that Davey Hamilton's legs were salvagable or Johnny Herbert's ankles and feet...well, sort of his ankles. The same is true of Davey Hamilton. I suspect that Hamilton's career is over though. I was pissed when Roberto "Hazard" Guerrero wrecked Alessandro Zampedri in the first IRL Indy 500 on the last lap. Zampedri was injured pretty bad and lost some toes. Guerrero has been incompetent ever since he had that coma after his big wreck.

So...I'm not sure in which direction to pray for Alex.

Great start for CART in Europe. CART's not going to make it. That's the way it looks. They're PAYING to have their races shown, they've lost Greg Moore, Gonzalo Rodriguez, and now we have Zanardi. (And of course Jeff Krosnoff, but that was before CART was going down hill) If CART exists in 10 years I'll be surprised.

Dude, **** you. Alex is not you. Alex has a family, he has a child. You would rather his child grow up with no father just cause the guy can't race anymore? **** racing, who cares. The things doctors can do these days are amazing. Ofcourse the mental strain on Alex will be incredibly hard, but he will learn to use his new magic legs (yes, like Captain Dan) and hw WILL live a happy life taking care of his family. Look at the amputee olympics dude. Do those people look like they want to die, or aren't enjoying life?

[A3]

I totally agree Jayway.

This is disgusting IMO:

Quote

So, I hope that what I've said isn't taken the wrong way, but it'd be easier for me if Alex had died, instead of getting to see him as a paraplegic.

Pacific, sometimes it's better to keep your thoughts to yourself. You can hurt a lot of people with comments like that.

[MFC993]

Quote

Originally posted by JayWay



Dude, **** you. Alex is not you. Alex has a family, he has a child. You would rather his child grow up with no father just cause the guy can't race anymore? **** racing, who cares. The things doctors can do these days are amazing. Ofcourse the mental strain on Alex will be incredibly hard, but he will learn to use his new magic legs (yes, like Captain Dan) and hw WILL live a happy life taking care of his family. Look at the amputee olympics dude. Do those people look like they want to die, or aren't enjoying life?

Amen. There are plenty of families in New York right now who will never see their loved ones again. He is alive and alert and that is truly good news.

[Ali_G]

From what I have heard he is now in a stable condition. At the start the doctors were worried about blood loss through the legs but his operation has stopped this from happening.

I have to say that this is turning into an aweful year for motorSport.

Good to hear that he is alive and well though.

Niall

[Captain Cranckcase]

Jayway:up:

[nilbog]

I think I need to just hide for a while. I was at my limit for taking bad news and I think this has pushed me over the edge. Dear God, you've used so little mercy this most horrible of weeks. Please don't let my favorite driver ever die like this. How can I possibly watch racing again after so much suffering?

WHY???

[911]

Quote

Originally posted by A3
I totally agree Jayway.

This is disgusting IMO:



Pacific, sometimes it's better to keep your thoughts to yourself. You can hurt a lot of people with comments like that.

Many amputees can still have a normal life these days. I'm amazed at how well these prosthetics work. I don't happen to remember the racers name, but there is a bike racer (NHRA) who does fairly well with prosthetics. Of course, driving a car is different, but my point is that he made the most of his situation.

Knowing Alex's positive personality, I can see him making the most out of this setback. I'm very happy that he is alive.

911

[Ursus]

Bloody shame

As for not being able to race again. If racing is your life than there are ways. Anyone remember this fella'?

[Duck]

Pacific, just a few thoughts on your keen insight, and personal opinions... First of all, I am absolutely THRILLED Alex is still alive. Whether or not you would feel better had he not survived is your gig. I suggest you find some way to work that issue out in your own head.
Secondly, I take considerable offense regarding your insulting value judgement regarding Roberto Guerrero. I've known, and worked with Roberto personally for a number of years, and I can't think of a more decent, or kinder human being. Whatever unfortunate circumstances encompassed his racing career have absolutely NO bearing on Roberto Guerrero the man, the husband, or wonderful father.

[Mr Melvin]

I feel sick.

Everyone is praying for you Alex.

[coyoteBR]

Since that weekend in Imola I don't witness so much horrible accidents in car races in a row.
My thoughts are with Alex Zanardi and his family and friends, may he recovers and all receive understanding and peace of mind.

And I will pray more and more for the whole plane of existence - may all those dark clouds over the globe desapear.

[Pascal]

That was a horrific crash. And though I'm relieved to know that Alex is still alive, I'm very sad about the loss of his legs.

I really hope he will survive to live a long and happy life. Zanardi always struck me as a gentleman in the competitive world of motor racing, and what happened today is a real tragedy.

[Jaybee]

Pacific - you use the word paraplegic, meaning that the spinal chord has been severed. Is this true? I have read nothing so far to suggest this. It is bad enough that Alex Zanardi is going to have to cope with learning to be a double amputee. He can have a reasonable life as long as he recovers from the trauma of the accident and subsequent surgery but it will never be the life he has lost. We need to send him our thoughts and best wishes to help him through the time ahead, and the same to his family.

[rdrcr]

Pacific, Honestly...

Race drivers love life... they accept the risk, it makes the reward even greater.

If they are gravely injured, like having the loss of limbs, they go on as most do who have the desire for life... It is unfair to place your idea of what you would do in place of another...

Just some examples...

Clay Regazoni - opened a racing school for physically challenged drivers.

Wayne Rainey - still races a 250 super kart that his dear friend Eddie Lawson hade made for him - they now promote racing series events together...

Alessandro Nannini - severely injured in F1, still races.

Darrell Gwynn - ex drag racer... now runs his own team

Sam Schmidt - was helped by Frank Williams spiritualy after his tragic accident, now run his own team.

Frank Williams - need I say more?

After reading all of these comments, do you have a better understanding now?

[Moraes]

I hope he makes it. Even without his legs, Zanardi still can enjoy life and the love of his family. I always looked upon on him as one of the bravest driver ever. I'm sure he'll keep figthing.

Pacific, I can't believe you said something like that. Ok, that's the way you feel about the subject, but it sounds like you're wishing Zanardi's death. There's a lot more in life than just physical activities. If Zanardi didn't suffer severe brain damage, he can still have a good life. Maybe he can even drive again. Remember, Jason Watt? After his accident, he was able to drive a adapted race car. Obvously it was just for fun, but he could still enjoy himself in a race car.

Get well soon, Zanardi.

[Paste]

JayWay.
You're a dick, Pacific.

[A3]

Quote

Originally posted by Jaybee
We need to send him our thoughts and best wishes to help him through the time ahead, and the same to his family.

alex@alex-zanardi.com

[The Swerve]

Maybe a few people might take the time to read the actual sentiment behind Pacific's words rather than just jump to attack. I think he just tried to put into words some jumbled up feelings and maybe he didn't express himself so well. After this week I guess we are all struggling to come to terms with this stuff.

Zanardi's accident is just a little too much for people to bear I think.

Let's cut people a little slack okay?

[TheDestroyer]

How much more pain and suffering do we need to see this damn week!!!

[rdrcr]

Swerve, Suit yourself...

Quote

So...I'm not sure in which direction to pray for Alex.

There is no urgency to post... no deadlines, people are free to take as much or as little time as they like to get their message across. That's why they have a preview reply button right?

I'll cut him some slack.... but seems to me there is very little of that around here at anytime... certainly not in my direction anyway.

As CCook would say... the BB is an attempt in futility in communication exchange... like "polishing a turd" or something along those lines.

Regards -

rdrcr

[RJL]

My thoughts & prayers are with AZ. I was at the Vancouver Indy event just the other week & can't believe this has happened. Been a fan of his for years, particularly because of his wonderful exuberant personality. Be strong Alex, we're all praying for you.

What a horrible week, I'm really at my limit for bad news.

[Ricardo F1]

I think tomorrow will all be fine. Chin up Wolbo.

[AD]

I can't even begin to imagine the sheer pain that Alex suffered straight after that accident. How is he even alive? As many have already said this is a truely aweful week. Let's hope there is no big crash at the first corner tomorrow.

[Pikachu Racing]

Man I'm shocked what happen to Zan. He's my favorite driver to watch. Can't believe he lost both of his legs.

This will forever be the blackest week........

[Lada Lover]

I was angry with Pacific's comments until I remembered I thought the same way when I was young. Now I know better and Alex will be alright.

[TheDestroyer]

AD,

Given the week's events and now Zanardi's horrific crash and injuries I would be surprised if the FIA didn't go with a rolling start just to avoid any further potential grief and sorrow from a turn 1 accident...

[Psychoman]

I was hoping that this race would bring some kind of joy. Obviously someone who doesn't like people very much has taken over the controls on Spaceship Fate As for the comments about being unlucky to have lived through it, having seen enough of Alex through TV and everything, he'll find a way to stay cheerful through the whole thing Good Luck Alex!

[mhferrari]

I'm hesitant to ask...

what's next?...