Zhou Guanyu escaped a serious injury after a massive crash Sunday’s British Grand Prix.

Zhou, who had started ninth, was tipped over on the run down to the opening Abbey turn, and launched through the gravel trap towards the barriers.

The crash was triggered by contact between George Russell and Pierre Gasly on the run away from the start. The Mercedes spun into Zhou on the left, who then rolled over and slid on the car’s halo all the way to the catch fencing.

Russell later stopped at the first corner with his left rear tyre having been detached from the wheel.

Further back, there was a separate incident as the Williams of Alex Albon was pitched right in to the pit wall after being hit from behind by the Aston Martin of Sebastian Vettel.

Albon’s damaged car was then struck by other cars as it spun to the outside, with Yuki Tsunoda and Esteban Ocon being caught up in the melee.

FIA race direction has since confirmed both Zhou and Albon have been taken to the medical centre for precautionary checks.

“The FIA advises that following the incident at the start of the race, emergency crews were immediately in attendance, and the drivers of Car 23 (Albon) and Car 24 (Zhou) have been taken to the medical centre,” a statement read.

“Both drivers were conscious and will be evaluated at the medical centre. Further updates will be given in due course.”