Heikki Kovalainen suffers from a heart problem but optimistic about his treatment

The former pilot of Formula 1 Heikki Kovalainen faces a new challenge in his life. The Finn has in fact announced that he has a heart problem requiring open heart surgery.

“I was diagnosed with an ascending aortic aneurysm during a recent medical examination and was told that I cannot participate in the Japan Rally Championship due to the increased risk of rupture of the aorta”, said the 42-year-old pilot. “I have no symptoms and feel good currently, and we are in the process of developing a plan to resolve this issue. »

Although the prospect of open heart surgery may be worrying, the winner of the 2008 Hungarian Grand Prix with McLaren remains confident and reassures his fans. “Open heart surgery is the best solution at the moment and we are preparing for it. We hope that the operation goes well and that recovery begins as soon as possible. »

ALSO READ > Heikki Kovalainen: “I have always loved rallying”

Heikki Kovalainen, author of 111 Grands Prix in F1 between 2007 and 2013, now lives in Japan, where he competed in the Super GT as well as the National Rally Championship with Toyota. This last category is therefore put on “pause” while the Nordic goes on the operating table.

“My goal is of course to return to the Japan Rally Championship with Rally Team Aicello. I had planned to participate in the rallies until the end of January, but after careful consideration with my team of doctors, I decided to try to resolve this problem instead.

I am sorry to all of our team partners and fans for this issue and thank them for all the encouragement and support they have given me. »