Scott McLaughlin hospitalised for observation after qualifying shunt

Defending Supercars champion Scott McLaughlin has been taken to hospital for observation on the back of the accident in qualifying that ruled him out of the second race of the weekend on the Gold Coast.

McLaughlin suffered what has now been confirmed as a 42.7g impact with the wall in the closing stages of the session, which resulted in the #17 Ford Mustang coming to rest on its side against the barriers.

Extensive damage to the car had already ruled McLaughlin and team-mate Alex Premat out of the Sunday race, with the 26-year-old points lead initially clear of injury after undergoing checks in the medical centre.

However, given the violent nature of the incident, McLaughlin has now been taken to the Gold Coast University Hospital by ambulance to be monitored for delayed concussion and soft tissue injuries.

“Scott was thoroughly examined by the medical team and a SCAT-5 concussion test was completed,” Supercars’ medical delegate Dr Carl Le said. “Scott passed the test and was released from the medical centre back to his team.

“After further observation, I have recommended that Scott be admitted to hospital for closer observation. He’s going by ambulance purely so we can get him out of the race precinct effectively, rather than a normal car.”