Hunter Abbott still hopes to race after qualifying crash

Rob Austin Racing’s Hunter Abbott said he was still hopeful of racing at Thruxton after a crash brought a premature end to his qualifying session.

Abbott lost control exiting Goodwood with seven minutes left of the session and had a side-on impact with the tyre barrier, causing significant damage to his Audi A4.

Abbott said his team are now working “flat out” to repair the damage.

He said: “My left hand wheels just caught the edge of the grass and that was it. I don’t think I really lost any speed before the car went into the barriers – sideways and on my side.

“It’s made quite a mess but I know the team will work flat out to try and fix it all for tomorrow – they’ve certainly proven themselves to be the best in the paddock at fixing cars. I don’t mind admitting that I am starting to feel sore now, particularly on my neck and back. It was a big impact.”