Despite the Italian GP weekend in Monza has not yet started on the track a first curious accident occurred, immortalized by those who were present in the paddock. This time, however, it was not a single-seater that ended up in the wall, but rather Bernd Maylander's Aston Martin Safety Car, which went off the track at the height of the Parabolica, recently modified in the modernization works of the Monza racetrack. Maylander was carrying out high-speed tests in preparation for the race weekend when he found himself in the barriers. The impact, from the photos collected, seems to have been violent but fortunately the driver was not affected. The accident has aroused a lot of curiosity, given that it is rare to see situations of this kind, especially with a driver of such experience.
The photo of Maylander's accident on Thursday in Monza
For over 20 years, Bernd Maylander has been driving the Safety Car, which has undergone several modifications over the years, in all conditions. But the question that many have asked is what was Maylander doing on the track on Thursday? Contrary to what many people think, Maylander's commitment is not limited to the official sessions, or to the race. His job requires him to arrive at the track well in advance, check the track and make sure everything is in order for the race weekend. During the Grand Prix, however, he must maintain a high but constant speed to prevent the cars behind him from losing temperature in their brakes and tires. A particularly complex challenge on fast circuits like Monza. And it was at Monza that Bernd Maylander paid the price for the high speeds reached, even more so after the changes to the track. The Parabolica now features a light banking to simplify drainage.
According to what Daniel Ricciardo reported, the changes to some points, such as the Ascari Variant with new kerbs, will allow the drivers to arrive faster.
Below is a photo of the impact and the red flag displayed to recover Maylander and the Safety Car.
