Justin Wilson critical after crash at Pocono in IndyCar

Wilson was unconscious when he was transported by helicopter to a hospital near the Long Pond, Pennsylvania, track.

In a statement, IndyCar officials said Wilson is in a coma.

"Justin Wilson sustained a severe head injury during today's event at Pocono Raceway. Wilson is currently in a coma and in critical condition while undergoing further evaluation at Lehigh Valley Health Network Cedar Crest Hospital in Allentown, Pa," the statement read.

"INDYCAR sends its thoughts and prayers to Justin, his family and Andretti Autosport during this difficult time.

"Additional updates to Wilson's condition will be released when available."

The piece of debris came from the car of Sage Karam, who spun into the wall with 18 laps remaining in the race.

Impact from the crash sent pieces of the car flying into the air as approaching drivers passed by.

One of the larger objects can be seen falling onto Wilson's head before his car veers to the left directly into an interior wall.

Safety personnel quickly surrounded the British driver, who was airlifted by helicopter from the track.

Wilson, 36, is from Sheffield, England.

He has competed in American open-wheel racing since 2004, and this season joined Andretti Autosport for the final six races.

It"s a tough one right now," team owner Michael Andretti said after the race, when Wilson's condition was unknown. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Justin right now."

Ryan Hunter-Reay, an Andretti team-mate of Wilson's, was the eventual race winner.

Hunter-Reay said he was told Wilson was unconscious and not responding when he was airlifted to the hospital.