Aron Fractures Back in Bathurst Crash

Mercedes-AMG factory driver Ralf Aron has revealed that he has suffered two fractures to his back following a sizeable crash in the Meguiar’s Bathurst 12 Hour on Sunday, and also says he wants to work with officials to try to avoid a repeat incident happening in the future.

The Estonian had just taken the lead in the No. 77 Craft-Bamboo Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo when he was powerless to avoid the spun Tsunami RT Porsche 911 GT3 R of Johannes Zelger that was stranded in the center of the road approaching Forrest’s Elbow.

Aron was taken to hospital following the crash in the ninth hour of the race, which resulted in the contest being red-flagged, while Zelger walked away uninjured.

Now Aron has given an update on social media about his injuries and also thanked supporters for the “incredible amount of messages” that he has received.

“Considering the circumstances, I am doing fine and my condition is stable,” he wrote.

“I suffered two fractures in my back, but I have full movement and sensation throughout my body, which I am very grateful for.

“Also very happy to see that Johannes Zelger was able to walk away from the crash.

“I have raced on many street circuits around the world, including Macau, Pau, the Norisring and even challenging places like the Nordschleife. I have a lot of experience in these environments, and I understand the risks that come with this type of racing.

“The situation in Bathurst was a serious one, and for that reason I would like to have a meeting and open discussion with race control to share my experience and perspective.

“This is not about pointing fingers. It is about understanding what happened and making sure we can prevent situations like this in the future, so that racing at this beautiful track can be as safe as possible for everyone.”

Aron also said he his determined to return to Bathurst next year and wants to get back behind the wheel as soon as possible.

He also praised his Craft-Bamboo teammates Lucas Auer and Maximilian Goetz for supporting him through “this difficult situation.”