TOM’S driver Sasahara was taken to hospital following the crash that occurred on the fourth lap of the race at 130R, following contact with the Nakajima Racing car of Hiroki Otsu.
The incident led to the race being red-flagged, and damage to the catch fencing at 130R meant the decision was taken not to restart the race, with half points awarded.
Images taken trackside after the incident showed that Sasahara’s chassis had cleared the catch fencing and landed near the start of the Degner Curves, dropping down from the upper part of Suzuka’s famous crossover to the lower section.
JRP president Yoshihisa Ueno revealed to media that Sasahara was diagnosed with concussion and won’t be able to participate in Sunday’s finale.
It’s understood that Sasahara will be held in hospital overnight as a precaution, but could leave as soon as Sunday, with further checks to be made in Tokyo before a decision is made on his participation in next week’s Super GT season finale at Motegi.
Source: Autosport