Williams driver Alex Albon was put on a ventilator after surgery-related issues caused him to experience “respiratory failure.”
The 26-year-old was sent to the neighboring San Gerardo Hospital for treatment after being declared unfit for the Italian Grand Prix at Monza on Saturday morning due to appendicitis.
The Williams driver underwent surgery, but he afterwards required breathing assistance and was admitted to intensive care. Albon was taken off mechanical ventilation on Sunday, according to Williams, and will likely remain there on Monday.
“Further to Alex Albon’s diagnosis of appendicitis on the morning of Saturday 10 September, he was admitted to San Gerardo Hospital for treatment. He underwent a successful laparoscopic surgery on Saturday lunchtime,” a statement from Williams read.
“Following surgery, Alex suffered with unexpected post-operative anaesthetic complications which led to respiratory failure, a known but uncommon complication. He was re-intubated and transferred to intensive care for support.
“He made excellent progress overnight and was able to be removed from mechanical ventilation yesterday morning. He has now been transferred to a general ward and is expected to return home tomorrow. There were no other complications.
“Alex’s full focus is on recovery and preparation ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix later this month.”
The London-born driver who competes under the Thai flag participated in Italian Grand Prix’s Friday’s practice.
However, he became ill early on Saturday, and Nyck de Vries, the team’s reserve driver, and the 2022 Formula E champion, took his place. The 27-year-old Dutchman earned points on his Formula One debut by finishing an excellent ninth.
After being dismissed by Red Bull, Albon spent last year on the sidelines. However, he has consistently impressed since joining Williams, earning his first British team point at the Australian Grand Prix in April and going on to finish in the top 10 twice more, in Miami and Belgium.
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen won at Monza marking his fifth straight victory, and he appears to be headed for a second straight year as the world champion. Second place went to Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, and third place went to Mercedes’ George Russell.
Verstappen was booed by some spectators as he crossed the finish line after the final five laps had to be completed behind a Safety Car, adding to the controversy of the race.
