A second Audi R18 TDI has crashed out of Le Mans in terrifying circumstances. This time it was the #1 car with Mike Rockenfeller at the wheel, although the contact was similar to that suffered by Allan McNish who crashed out in the first hour. The 27-year-old German was fast approaching the #71 AF Corse Ferrari and went for an overtake down the inside on entry to the Indianapolis corner. The gap was there, but perhaps Robert Kauffman didn’t see him and the two collided on the apex of the high-speed corner.

The results sent Rockenfeller spearing into the barrier and full pace before crashing over the barriers on the other side of the track. Due to the position on the track and that it was approaching 11pm local time, vision of the crash is limited. Amazingly, it’s been reported that Rockenfeller was able to walk away from his car before being taken to hospital for observation.

We’ve added some extra video footage below which includes commentary audio. An short statement from Audi has also been provided.

[Source: lemans.org]

2011/06/11

24h Le Mans – Race Facts – Hour 8

Audi loses second car due to an accident

Ingolstadt/Le Mans, June 11, 2011 – Mike Rockenfeller has been hit by a GT car while approaching Indianapolis corner and crashed into the barriers at high speed. The carbon monocoque of the R18 TDI resisted the massive impact. Mike Rockenfeller got out of the car on his own and has been brought to the medical centre of the circuit for checks. At the time of the accident both of the Audi R18 TDI cars had a 1-2 lead in the race.

Positions after 8 hours: 1 Audi #2 2 Peugeot #7 3 Peugeot #9 4 Peugeot #8 5 Peugeot #10

Time Fact

22:15 #1 pit stop: through gravel bed at pit entry, diesel

22:25 #2 pit stop: diesel

22:25 Position change: #1 passes #7

22:40 #1 (Rockenfeller): serious accident after collision with a GT car while
approaching Indianapolis corner, Mike Rockenfeller got out of the car on his own and will be checked at the medical centre of the circuit

22:44 Safety car period, accident of Audi R18 TDI #1

23:00 #2 P1