JULY 18, 2001

Schumacher accident investigated

FERRARI has blamed the high speed accident that befell Michael Schumacher yesterday (Tues), on a damaged undertray.

Schumacher was apparently giving the car, chassis number 209, a rough ride over the curbs at the classic Italian venue in practice for next weekend's German Grand Prix at the similarly-styled Hockenheim circuit.

The Ferrari left the track while braking from over 180mph for the Seconda Variante. It has been reported that the car snapped right under braking, slid down the guard rail and speared the tire wall at the exit of the chicane, breaking the nose section comprehensively.

Ferrari took the chassis back to Maranello, where it underwent a full inspection from which Ferrari reported: "Initial inspection of the car and analysis of the telemetry data, shows that the loss of downforce could have been caused by damage to the car's under-floor, as a result of running over the curbs at the chicane."

Schumacher was given a precautionary check-up after walking back to the pits from the scene of the accident. He will undergo a series of more rigorous assessment in Geneva before he is given the all-clear to compete in Germany.

Rubens Barrichello will take over the Monza testing duties from now on, with chassis 212.