A Porsche Had Complete Brake Failure As It Hit The Infamous Corkscrew At California's Laguna Seca, Resulting In One Of The Most Terrifying Crashes Ever

A Porsche race car suddenly launched into the air, somersaulted and tore through a catch fence before crashing into trees at California’s WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, in footage that has stunned motorsport fans.

Driver Manuel Gil del Real was competing in Saturday morning’s Porsche Sprint Challenge USA West race, a support event ahead of the IndyCar weekend, when his No. 270 Porsche 911 Cup car appeared to lose braking power approaching the famous Zanardi Corkscrew. The car hit the curbing at high speed, went airborne, flipped violently, destroyed a section of fencing and disappeared into the vegetation beyond the track.

Spectators and trackside observers can be seen reacting in shock as debris flies and smoke billows from the impact zone. The front end of the car, including the front axle, separated from the rest of the vehicle, but the safety cage remained intact.

Porsche Motorsport North America said Gil del Real was awake after being airlifted to a hospital in Salinas for evaluation and treatment. “Porsche Sprint Challenge USA West driver Manuel Gil Del Real is awake following an on-track incident during Saturday morning’s race at Laguna Seca,” the organization said. “He has been transported to a Salinas hospital and is being evaluated and treated. More information will be provided as it becomes available.”

Officials confirmed no fans, photographers or track personnel were injured. The crash caused significant barrier damage and delayed IndyCar practice, which was shortened as crews repaired the tire wall and catch fence.

The Corkscrew is one of the most iconic and demanding corners in American racing, featuring a steep, blind drop. Gil del Real was reportedly running third on the final lap when the incident occurred. The cause has been described as an apparent brake failure, though a full investigation is expected.