McLaren withdraws from Sardinia Extreme E after two crashes

Neom McLaren Extreme E Kiwi driver Emma Gilmour is out of hospital and recovering after crashing in practice, while a replacement driver also crashed in a “Redemption Race”, prompting the team to withdraw from Round 8 of Extreme E Season 3 in Sardinia.

Gilmour suffered a small rib fracture and was tested at Cagliari Hospital before being discharged, recovering in her hotel room.

Her replacement, Tamara Molinaro, crashed out of the Round 7 Redemption Race in the team’s second car after being involved in an incident with another car shortly after the start. The Italian was taken to a medical centre for precautionary checks, says the team.

As a result of the damage sustained, the Neom McLaren team withdrew from the final round of the Island X Prix, co-organised by the Automobile Club d’Italia and Regione Sardegna.

The team says Gilmour was involved in a crash in “Free Practice 1” and that due to damage to the Odyssey 21 EV the team decided to use the series’ championship car for the remainder of the Island X Prix, but Molinaro’s car was also damaged.

“It is testament to the safety of the Extreme E Odyssey 21 cars that both drivers were able to walk away from the incidents,” says the team which wished Gilmour well in her recovery and was pleased Molinaro was unhurt.

“We look forward to seeing Emma and the Neom McLaren Extreme E team return for the Season 3 finale in Chile (December 2 and 3).”

The team says its top priority is that both drivers are alright and in good spirits after their incidents.

“Our full focus will now be on the final two rounds in Chile and ending the season on a high.”