Statement from Michele Abbate About Road America Incident
July 28, 2023
During the 6th lap of the first test session of the weekend Michele Abbate experienced a major brake failure at 152mph as she headed to T12, Canada Corner. Upon the 80mph impact the car caught fire but she remained conscious and was able to exit the vehicle safely under her own power.
"After the car came to a violent halt in the tire barrier, initially I thought I broke my back - it was so painful. Then the car caught fire, immediately I attempted to pull the fire pull, but upon inspection the fire bottle rotated due to the impact causing the cables to not work properly.
As I continued the egress process with flames around me I lowered my net and removed my door, but as I tried to prop myself out of the car, my right ankle gave out. I ended up flopping onto the ground like a fish, while in the most excruciating pain I've ever experienced. As I laid on the ground, I remember just a few seconds later I could see the Road America medical team surrounding me and taking as much precaution as they could to move me safely."
Michele was transported in an ambulance from the track to the medic center, then to the hospital with her husband, Anthony Philleo. She had reports of back pain, right ankle pain, and right shoulder pain. Team Owner Ken Thwaits and President of the Trans Am Race Company John Clagett accompanied her while in the ER.
After several X-rays, CT scans, and evaluations Abbate was released from the hospital diagnosed with a fractured ankle, several contusions, and sprains. "I was just grateful to be in the shape I was in considering what happened. I am very thankful for the craftsmanship of the Mike Cope Chassis, the diligence of the Trans Am series and their attention to safety, as well as the quality of all my safety gear", Michele said.
Upon her arrival back to Las Vegas, Michele saw several doctors in regards to her ankle injury throughout the week. Upon further review and four MRI scans it was discovered that she had crushed her talus bone against her tibia. This was somewhat ideal, as if the talus is fractured or broken it is extremely difficult to make a full recovery. Abbate was then scheduled for surgery on her ankle 3 days later.
Michele is still being diagnosed for her back injuries but she is in a walking boot and currently on crutches. "I was really hoping I could get back in a car, as I really did not want to miss the iconic Nashville Music City Grand Prix; unfortunately I am going to need more time to heal and I need to be 100% so I can perform my best. I've really got my eyes set on Watkins Glen in September - hopefully we can see some great progress in the next 4 weeks", Michele said.
At this time Abbate will not be returning to the Showtime Motorsports team to complete the 2023 season. "This is a very unfortunate way for our time with Showtime Motorsports to end, and I am grateful for the time that I had with the team. I thank Ken and his team for his efforts and support, and wish them all the best as the season continues", Michele shared.
“We at Showtime wish Michele a speedy recovery. We really wanted to achieve great results together. We hope nothing but the best for her as she continues her professional race driving journey.”, Team Owner Ken Thwaits expressed.
Be sure to tune into the Road to Glory on Thursday nights on MAVTV to watch their story unfold. As Michele's recovery continues future announcements will follow.
