Juan Manuel Correa says a lack of information and assistance from the FIA meant he too “almost died” in the crash which did kill Anthoine Hubert last year.
The American-Colombian smashed into the car of Hubert at the top of Eau Rouge/Raidillon during the Formula 2 feature race at Spa-Francorchamps, leaving him with severe leg injuries and requiring multiple surgeries.
But it was in the days after the crash when doctors were addressing Correa’s worst injuries, that he revealed other effects from what happened almost proved fatal.
“Everyone went to Monza the next day after the accident, I stayed in the hospital and I almost died four days later,” he told Germany’s N-TV.
“There was nobody from the FIA or someone to look after me.
“The reason that I almost died was because of the strong G-forces that you only have in such a serious accident,” Correa added.
“The doctors in the hospital in Belgium didn’t know what that was because they have never seen anyone who has survived such a big impact.”
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Thankfully, Correa’s recovery is well underway with doctors able to save his right leg from being amputated and now he regularly posts on social media showing his progress.
As it stands, his leg is still bolted in a full brace as the bone reforms and gains strength but the 20-year-old isn’t giving up on his dream.
“I can return. The timing is unpredictable because it is such a complicated injury as so much can happen that can make a difference five months earlier or five months later,” he explained.
“But even if it takes take years to come back, I will come back. I am very sure of that.
“Racing is not like ballet or football, you don’t have to be 100 per cent on your feet.
“If you can apply the gas and brake, you’re good. I’m fit from the waist up and have no damage, that’s the most important thing.
“The hands and the head are important and they are OK.
“I have to get my leg well enough, that I can accelerate and brake, then I can drive any car in the world.
“I miss racing very much, every day.”
