Ferrari's Massa remains in ICU after skull operation

Ferrari's Massa remains in ICU after skull operation

Medical staff lift Ferrari Formula One car driver Felipe Massa of Brazil into an ambulance after he crashed during the qualification session for the Hungarian F1 Grand Prix at the Hungaroring circuit near Budapest July 25, 2009. The Hungarian F1 Grand Prix will take place on Sunday July 26.

BUDAPEST, July 25 -- Ferrari driver Felipe Massa underwent skull surgery and will remain in intensive care for observation, his F1 team said on Saturday.

Massa crashed into a tyre wall in second qualifying after being hit on the helmet by a piece of flying debris believed to have come from the Brawn GP car of Rubens Barrichello.

He was flown to the AEK Hospital in Budapest after being treated at the track's medical center.

Ferrari said in a statement that Messa was conscious when he arrived at the hospital and the outcome of his surgery was "positive".

"He underwent surgery to treat these conditions, the outcome of which was positive. He will now remain under observation in intensive care," Ferrari.

The 28-year-old Brazilian qualified in 10th despite the crash but will miss Sunday's race.
(Xinhua)