Risi Ferrari has been hit by two unfortunate events in Mosport this weekend. Photo credit: Rick Dole for Michelin North America

FLASH—Risi Double Whammy

After turning in an impressive 1-2 performance in Friday testing, the Risi Competizione Ferrari team has been hit by a pair of body shots here today. 

Car #61 driver Pierre Kaffer hit the outside wall at the exit of the very fast turn one, spun and then contacted the inside wall during the morning practice. He was examined and released at a local hospital with no injuries.

His #61 Risi Ferrari F430 GT, which led Friday’s practice, suffered extensive damage and has been withdrawn.  That however is not the end of the story.

Teammate Jaime Melo, co-driver of the #62 Risi Ferrari has been hit by a stomach virus and is unable to take part in any further running this weekend. 

Kaffer’s co-driver Toni Vilander will now co-drive with Gianmaria (Gimmi) Bruni aboard the #62 Ferrari.  Risi is the 2008-2009 24 Hours of Le Mans and Petit Le Mans winner, and the winner of the 2009 and 2010 runnings of the 12 Hours of Sebring.