Reigning FIA Production Car World Rally champion, Nasser Al Attiyah, has been forced to pull out of Rally New Zealand.
The Qatar driver suffered injuries after he rolled his car during filming for a promotional video.
Al Attiyah was behind the wheel of a road car while making the video for a sponsor when he crashed.
"He suffered head injuries which, although not serious, will not heal in time for the rally," said team manager Ken Skidmore, of British-based preparation company Autotek.
Fellow Qatari, Misfer Almari, will replace Al Attiyah in the Subaru Impreza which is already on its way to New Zealand. This is the latest incident in a season of ill fortune for Al Attiyah, who has failed to finish two of his four starts this year, and his withdrawal from Rally New Zealand means he has no chance of retaining his world crown.
The current leader in the PWRC is Japan’s Toshi Arai (Japan), who followed his victory in the 2005 world championship with appalling luck last year – and now it seems that Al Attiyah is following in similar lines.
"Several. Too Many. Lost count,” said Skidmore to questions of how many crashes that Al Attiyah has suffered this season."
SUBSCRIBE BELOW TO READ THE FULL STORY
RallySport Magazine Subscription
Select Subscription Level
Select Subscription Length
Recurring Subscription Cost
A subscription to RallySport Magazine give you access to all our rally
content from Australia, New Zealand and around the world – with news,
features and experiences nobody can match.
Our team are dedicated to providing an unrivalled experience which
shares, supports and promotes the sport of rallying.
By clicking "Subscribe Now" you agree to receive news, offers and updates on RallySport Magazine.
If you do not wish to receive marketing communications, you can update your preferences in My Account.
We will commence charging your payment method after the 7 day free trial expires.
If you cancel after expiry of your trial, cancellation will take effect from the end of your current monthly subscription period.
You will not be refunded any fees paid to RallySport Magazine unless otherwise set out in the terms and conditions.
Account Created!
Welcome to RallySport Magazine VIP Membership.
Get ready for your rally news experience to completely transform.
Start browsing news, exclusive VIP content or check out your account.
