Sébastien Ogier has been released from hospital after a road traffic accident during recce for Rally Poland 2024.
A collision between Ogier and co-driver Vincent Landais’ Toyota recce car and a Ford Mondeo estate driven by a member of the public led to all those involved being transported to hospital for checks.
Landais was released from hospital on Tuesday evening and the occupants of the Mondeo did not suffer serious injury. Ogier was kept in hospital overnight for observation but was then released on Wednesday morning.
Ogier and Landais have withdrawn from Rally Poland, with Toyota able to draft Kalle Rovanperä and Jonne Halttunen in as replacements at the last minute thanks to special dispensation granted by the FIA and rally stewards.
In a statement on social media, Ogier said: “As you may know, Vincent and I had a road traffic collision yesterday during recce at Rally Poland. I had to spend the night in hospital, but I’m already feeling much better.
“I’m glad that medical checks showed no serious injuries as well for Vincent and the occupants of the other car. We’re not able to take part in this rally, which is a shame, but the most important is that everyone involved is safe
“Thank you everyone for all the messages I have received. I’m now on my way back home to take some rest and make sure to be back in full strength soon. Good luck to Kalle Rovanperä, Jonne Halttunen and the whole Toyota team, I’ll be cheering for you!”
Rovanperä is currently undertaking recce of all nine stages that feature on this year’s Poland itinerary, having been granted special dispensation to do so until Thursday morning.
Shakedown begins at 10:01am Thursday local time, with the rally kicking off with the Mikołajki Arena test at 7:05pm local time.
