[JPMontoya]

In an unprecedented turn of events, both Ferraris crashed within two hours of each other at the Circuit de Catalunya today (Tuesday).

The damage caused put the team out of the week-long session after only a day and a half of work.

Michael Schumacher endured a massive rear-on accident after a suspected mechanical failure on his F2001 at lunchtime.

He careered into the barrier at Turn 11 at approximately 140 mph, after his car suddenly swapped ends on the approach to the corner.


The German caused significant damage to the rear of his car, ripping both wheels from the chassis and damaging the gearbox and rear wing.

The four times world champion looked shocked but unharmed, and was taken to the medical centre for a quick check-up immediately after the crash.

He soon returned to the Ferrari pit to study telemetry and analyse what caused the accident.

He told journalists: "I am OK, but do not know what happened as it was all too quick."

Then, at 14.03 local time, Rubens Barrichello crashed at Turn 9. The Brazilian impacted right-side-on with the barrier, causing considerable damage to his Ferrari F2001, but was also thankfully unhurt.

He also was unsure as to why he had left the track. The team decided to pack up and return to Ferrari HQ in Maranello, Italy.

Within three hours of the second accident Schumacher was on his way home to Switzerland, Barrichello was preparing to leave the track and the Ferrari garage was shut as mechanics prepared to follow their two drivers out of Spain.

There is no information currently available as to whether any of the test or race drivers will undertake analysis work in Mugello or Fiorano instead.

SOURCE : Formula1.com