A serious fire in the Williams garage has forced the pitlane at the Circuit de Catalunya to be evacuated. The fire started well after the race had finished, which was won by Williams driver Pastor Maldonado.
It’s understood a loud explosion was heard immediately before the fire broke out. Sir Frank Williams was giving a speech to his team at the time.
Details are unclear as to the exact cause of the fire, but the image above shows the damage appears extensive.
It has also been reported that Williams and Force India personnel have been treated for smoke inhalation. At this stage no reports of serious injury have been confirmed.
[Source: Formula1.com | Pic: @PortalF1]
UPDATE: Two videos from Sky TV and the BBC have been added below, along with an official statement from the FIA which says a total of 31 team members from Williams, Force India and Caterham were treated, with seven being kept in hospital for treatment. A press release from Williams F1 has also been added.
2012 Spanish Grand Prix
13/05/2012
Montmelo, May 13th – The FIA can confirm that a fire broke out in the Williams garage after the conclusion of the Spanish Grand Prix. The flames were quickly brought under control through the combined intervention of staff from Williams, Caterham and Force India, supported by the circuit fire services.
Thirty-one team members were seen by Circuit Medical Centre staff and all have been released, with the exception of seven who were transferred to a variety of local hospitals where they are receiving treatment.
The FIA is collaborating closely with the Spanish authorities investigating this incident and will be providing a further update as soon as more information becomes available.
STATEMENT FROM THE WILLIAMS F1 TEAM
Sunday 13 May 2012
After today’s Spanish Grand Prix a fire occurred in the team’s garage which originated from the fuel area.
Four team personnel were injured in the incident and subsequently taken to the medical centre. Three are now receiving treatment at local hospitals for their injuries, while the fourth has been released. The team will monitor their condition and ensure they receive the best possible care.
The team, the fire services and the police are working together to determine the root cause of the fire and an update statement will be released in due course.
The Williams F1 Team would like to thank all of the teams and the FIA for their support in today’s incident.
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