Formula fans showed their support to Heikki Kovalainen who told about his serious diagnosis.
Heikki Kovalainen bravely told about his health situation. Inka Soveri
Iltalehti’s news Heikki Kovalainen the heart problem became an international topic.
Numerous foreign media have reported on the diagnosis received by the former GP winner, dilation of the ascending aorta. Among other things, to be considered the bible of the motorsport world Autosport, Sports Illustrated as well as British tabloids the Sun and Daily Mail told formula fans around the world about Kovalainen’s situation.
The 42-year-old racing driver got the diagnosis completely out of the blue during a routine medical examination in November.
– At the end of last season, I decided to have a thorough physical examination at the doctor’s. The idea was to check that no bigger problem was found, but then something like this was revealed, Kovalainen tells Iltalehte.
Open heart surgery is likely ahead, which has its own dangers. Kovalainen himself approaches his situation calmly.
– The probabilities are on my side. However, if it happens that I can’t continue racing despite the operation, then so be it. Johan has come a long way here, says Kovalainen.
Full support from the fans
Kovalainen and Mike Gascoyne worked together at Caterham. PDO
The news about Kovalainen’s health problem reached formula fans. The unanimous position was dismay. Fans wish the Finn well in chorus in the comment fields of articles and on social media.
– God, this is terrible news. A criminally underrated driver who won a GP with McLaren. On top of that, a top guy. I hope he recovers as quickly as possible, one commenter summed up everyone’s thoughts.
One of the people keeping his fingers crossed for Kovalainen is Mike Gascoyne. Gascoyne, who had a successful career in formula one, worked with Kovalainen at Caterham. Kovalainen competed with cars designed by him from 2010 to 2012.
– I wish all the best for Heik and his family. A top guy and a great racing driver, Gascoyne wrote on the messaging service X.