Nik Thiim’s attempt to salvage a title at the Sachsenring was undone when the Aston Martin clipped the Winward Mercedes in the first corner, leaving Jules Gounon with a hand injury.
The impact: injury and the immediate medical response
Gounon was immediately rattled, reporting pain to the radio as the front‑right of the Aston Martin slammed into him. The Frenchman iced the injured left hand on the spot. Following a quick assessment, the medical team bandaged and splinted the wrist; Gounon said, “I don’t think it’s broken, but I need an X‑ray.”
Thiim’s perspective on the loss of grip
During the post‑race interview, Thiim explained the crash as a result of lost traction: “I see Jules coming out, I brake— and suddenly I completely lose grip and slide into him. Something was on the track at that point.” He noted that the deceleration had “just dropped off”, a typical sign of an unseen hazard.
Thiim also cited Luca Engstler’s earlier gravel exit and Emil Frey’s tight corner as indicators that “the track was compromised.” He added, “If he hadn’t been there, I would not have gone that far.”
Other drivers share a rough track
Engstler echoed the theory of an oily patch: “I hit the brakes, ABS activated instantly, and the car didn’t slow at all. I thought there might be oil.” He believed residual moisture and oil might have amplified slipperiness.
Vermeulen, who had narrowly avoided the incident, said, “I found less grip than expected. I’m not sure if it was too wide or if something lay on the track.” The same sentiment came from Emil Frey, who noted a dirty first sector and a shifted braking line.
Steward findings and no penalty for Thiim
In reviewing the incident, stewards concluded that the track surface at that specific point was compromised. Because of prior mishaps, they concluded it was “not Thiim’s fault.” Unlike Maro Engel, who was penalised for a similar bump on the ring’s “front‑right line,” Thiim received no sanction.
Thiim’s title hopes collapsed
With the crash resulting in a D‑Q, Thiim now sits fifth in the standings, 50 points behind leader Thomas Preining. He said, “Theoretical chances at Hockenheim are not happening. I can now drive a little more relaxed.” The season’s title race is effectively over for the Dane.
"