Alonso taken to hospital after crash at Barcelona

MONTMELO — Fernando Alonso was taken to the hospital by helicopter after crashing in his McLaren during Formula One preseason testing on Sunday.

McLaren said in a statement that the two-time world champion "was conscious and spoke with the doctors" after having received first aid at the circuit's medical center.

The statement added: "However, as per usual procedure in such circumstances, he was then airlifted to hospital where he is undergoing precautionary checks."

The Spaniard went off the Barcelona-Catalunya circuit at turn three, and the right-hand side of his car hit the wall.

McLaren switched to Honda engines ahead of the upcoming season but has been plagued by technical problems.

Neither the team nor track officials have reported the cause of the crash.

The 33-year-old Alonso rejoined McLaren this season after a disappointing fifth and final campaign with Ferrari. He won back-to-back world titles with Renault in 2005 and 2006 before spending one season at McLaren in 2007.

Alonso has 32 career grand prix victories, the last of which came here at Montmelo in 2013.

Ferrari tweeted: "All the best Fernando."

Testing resumed at the track after a slight delay following the lunch break.