Advertisement

Lubomir Visnovsky escapes serious injury after crashing Ferrari during race in Slovakia

It's been a wild summer for New York Islanders defenseman Lubomir Visnovsky. In June, he was dealt from the Anaheim Ducks to Long Island, then late last month came news that he was taking the Islanders to arbitration to try an void the trade, claiming his no-trade clause was still valid. (The New York Post's Larry Brooks reports that the hearing will take place on Sept. 4.)

On Saturday, Visnovsky took part in a race at the Automotodróm Slovakia Ring motor circuit and crashed his Ferrari into a barrier head on, destroying the front of the car, as you see above.

From the Slovakia Ring Facebook page (translated):

"D4 division strongest race cars with engine capacity of 2000 cm3 were terminated early. This happened after the accident Ľuba Višňovský on his Ferrari at the exit of the second bend mishandled control at high speed and crashed head-on into a barrier. Fortunately escaped without any serious injuries, but the race has been canceled and the program will continue another competition."

From Pravda (translated):

"It happened in the 1st round at high speed when coming in the second turn. Lubo mishandled management, widely and went after the collision he was taken to the medical center. Fortunately okay. Was at high speed, but these cars are safe and barrier also served its purpose."

The Islanders released this statement on Saturday:

It was reported earlier today that defenseman, Lubomir Visnovsky was in an automobile accident, taking place in Slovakia. Below is a brief statement from Islanders General Manager, Garth Snow about the situation.

"I have spoken directly with Lubomir, and am pleased to report that he did not suffer any serious injuries."

The race was part of FIA GT1 World Championship series featuring top luxury car brands such as Ferrari and Lamborghini. Visnovsky was participating in a competition with engines with a capacity higher than 2.0 L.

Stick-tap Patrik for passing that along

UPDATE: Here's amateur video, featuring the crash off-camera:

Follow Sean Leahy on Twitter at @Sean_Leahy