Felipe Massa, struck by a component from Rubens Barrichello’s Brawn Mercedes in qualifying for the Hungarian Grand Prix, has undergone surgery this afternoon at the AEK hospital in Budapest.

Massa sustained head injuries from the flying debris including facial cuts but more significantly skull fractures and concussion.

The outcome of the procedure was positive the Ferrari team has confirmed and the Brazilian is to remain under observation and in intensive care.

His on track rivals have all rallied around following his accident. Countryman Barrichello visited the medical centre soon after the incident.

“My position today is unimportant,” he said with reference to qualifying.
“My thoughts right now are with Felipe and his family who are really close friends of mine and I hope he is going to be okay and will be fit as soon as possible.”

Ferrari is expected to make a further medical update late Sunday morning.

Zigerus wrote: Major props to that helmet maker.