De Villota, yet to acquire the mandatory super-licence required to compete in
Formula One, was taking part in her first test for the team, a straight-line
aero at Duxford Airfield.
De Villota had just completed her initial installation run when her car ran
into the tailgate of a support truck at around 20-30mph, which was at such a
height to inflict the head trauma.
Frenchman Pic, in his debut season with Marussia, has expressed his obvious
concern for De Villota, known to be a well-liked, hard-working member of the
Banbury-based team.
Via his Twitter account, Pic said: “I am very affected by what happened to
Maria…and I sincerely hope she will heal quickly. All my thoughts are for
her and her family.”
Early theories behind the accident have suggested the anti-stall mechanism on
the car kicked in as she approached a makeshift pit area, suddenly
propelling her into the truck.
With emergency services at the scene, De Villota was attended to quickly,
initially by fire crews and soon after paramedics.
Although it is believed she was unconscious for around 15 to 20 minutes, Press
Association Sport understands De Villota at least regained consciousness and
was talking prior to being transferred to Addenbrooke’s.
A statement from East of England Ambulance Service, who attended the scene,
confirmed receiving an emergency call at 9.17am prior to despatching a crew
to Duxford.
Spokesman Gary Sanderson later stated the service had treated a woman who had
“sustained life-threatening injuries”.
Air ambulance charity Magpas were also on hand to assist, with Dr Darren Reid
and volunteer paramedic Dave Mee in attendance.
A statement read: “The Magpas team were called to Duxford Airfield and arrived
at 10:20am after a Formula One car collided (at slow speed) with a lorry
tail lift.
“The Helimedix assessed the patient, who suffered facial and head injuries,
and administered pain relief as they worked alongside an EEAST ambulance
crew who were also at the scene.”
In light of the accident, a number of F1 drivers posted messages of support to
De Villota via Twitter.
McLaren star Jenson Button said: “Terrible accident for Maria De Villota. My
thoughts are with Maria and her family at this very difficult time.”
De Villota’s compatriot and Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso added: “I just got home
and found out Maria’s accident, we called the family and hopefully we will
know more soon! All my energy with you!”
Toro Rosso driver Daniel Ricciardo tweeted: “Let’s put Maria De Villota in our
hearts today.”