Grand Prix of Houston 2013 Crash Leads to Dario Franchitti, Spectator Injuries

Dario Franchitti and 13 spectators were injured after a scary crash on Sunday during the 2013 Grand Prix of Houston.

According to Jeff Olson, Nate Ryan and Curt Cavin of USA Today, Franchitti suffered two broken vertebrae, a fractured right ankle and a concussion after his car launched into the air and careened into the catchfence.

Franchitti, who is a three-time Indianapolis 500 winner and four-time IndyCar champion, was attempting to pass Takuma Sato late on Turn 5 when his No. 10 Honda went airborne. The car spun against the safety fence multiple times and again before coming to a nearby stop shortly after.

The resulting explosion and debris caused various injuries to nearby fans in attendance at Reliant Park. CNN staff reported that three spectators were sent to a nearby hospital and listed in good condition, while others were treated at the scene.

As per Target Ganassi Racing spokesperson Kelby Krauss, via USA Today, Franchitti underwent ankle surgery on Sunday at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center. The 40-year-old was kept overnight for observation, according to CNN.   

Chip Ganassi—the owner of Ganassi Racing, Franchitti’s team—spoke about his driver’s condition on television shortly after the incident, as per Olson, Ryan and Cavin.

"He's talking. His ankle is a little sore. His back is a little sore. He's going to take a trip to the hospital, but he is OK.”

Franchitti was awarded 11th place in the race, just behind Sato—who was given 10th place—and ahead of E.J. Viso, who was also involved in the wreck and finished in 12th.

Will Power would win the Grand Prix of Houston after a dominant performance that has unfortunately been overshadowed by this ugly crash.