F3 Driver Crashes in Practice Race

Prankster Leonardo Fornaroli Speeds to Victory in Monza Qualifier

Laurens van Hoepen Injures Foot in Practice Crash

Italian driver Leonardo Fornaroli claimed pole position for round 3 of the F3 championship at the historic Autodromo Nazionale di Monza, while reigning champion Laurens van Hoepen secured a spot in hospital instead of on the grid.

The Dutchman was unlucky to crash out on the very first lap of free practice after avoiding a collision in front of him, but unfortunately clipped the rear wheel of his teammate, Oliver Goethe.

The resulting impact caused a fracture to the Dutchman's foot, according to Motorsport.com, ruling him out for the race weekend.

"I'm lucky to have won": Fornaroli

Fornaroli, 21, was in a jubilant mood, but acknowledged his good fortune to have emerged victorious from qualifying.

The Italian said: "I'm lucky to have won here today, especially after the crash between Oliver and Laurens. It's a shame not to have the other Campos driver (van Hoepen) on the grid but I will try do my best in the race for the whole team."

The Italian's victory in qualifying comes just days after he was announced as a member of the Ferrari Driver Academy.

The Italian, who has already won at Monza this year in the Italian F4 Championship, will be hoping to repeat his success on Sunday.

Who will replace Laurens van Hoepen?

There was no word from Van Hoepen's team, Campos Racing, on who will replace the injured driver in the race.

F2 driver Ralph Boschung has driven for the team in the past, but the Swiss driver's injury in the Las Vegas race could prevent him from stepping up.

Another option is Cem Bolukbasi, the 21-year-old Turk who is currently the highest-placed driver in the FRAC standings who does not already have a clashing commitment.