Correa speaks publicly for the first time since Spa crash

Juan Manuel Correa has released his first public statement after undergoing a 17-hour operation on the serious injuries he sustained in the crash which also killed Anthoine Hubert.

Correa suffered spinal and leg injuries in the incident at Spa-Francorchamps, with the injuries to his right leg requiring reconstructive surgery this week, following a month-long period of rehabilitation from respiratory failure.

A statement read: "Doctors performed a combination of Orthopedic Flap and External Fixation Surgeries, and after 17 hours in the operating room, the 20-year-old emerged with hopeful news from doctors that the surgery was successful.

"More than 72 hours later, doctors are confident in a successful procedure while still under careful observation. During the procedure, doctors were forced to remove more bone material than they anticipated and solve several blood vessel issues, but state that the main objective of the surgery was achieved."

After going under the knife, doctors estimate that Correa will be fit enough to leave hospital in London in six weeks' time.

"These past few weeks have been extremely tough, tougher than anything I have ever faced both physically and mentally," Correa said.

"I understand my future regarding the recovery of my legs, specifically my right leg is still quite uncertain, and that my physical rehab will be extremely long and complicated.

"I am still processing everything that has, and is, happening.

"I want to thank every single person who one way or another has shown me their support. I am humbled by the immense number of caring and affectionate messages I have received.

"Thank you all from the bottom of my heart and know that your encouragement and positivity have made a difference."

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