Fuel spill sparks fire in pit lane, injuring two mechanics during Argentina's Turismo Carretera race

A fire erupted in the pit stop of the Martínez Competición team during the "Desafío de las Estrellas" Turismo Carretera race at the El Villicum Autodrome in San Juan, Argentina. The incident occurred on lap 30 when a fuel spill during a mandatory refueling ignited, creating a dangerous situation.

“

This award is both humbling and inspiring. It affirms our belief that public institutions create their greatest value not only by fulfilling their statutory mandates, but by improving lives and strengthening the communities they serve.

Footage shared on social media shows two mechanics being momentarily engulfed by flames as the fuel spilled from a canister. They quickly retreated, and a third mechanic used a fire extinguisher. However, a secondary fire broke out inside the pit box, prompting assistance from other teams to extinguish it. Fortunately, all personnel were wearing fireproof suits and escaped injury.

“

Beyond every classroom renovated, every borehole commissioned and every tree planted is something even more enduring; trust.

Team owner Omar "Gurí" Martínez confirmed that driver Mauricio Lambiris exited the vehicle safely. The team was forced to withdraw the car from the competition. Later, a video emerged showing a visibly upset Lambiris exchanging words with team members and kicking the car's rear bumper before heading to the pits.

“

No country could solve the crisis alone, but that through accountability, partnership, innovation and shared responsibility, the world could become greener, safer and more prosperous.

This was not the only safety concern during the race. Earlier, Diego De Carlo's Chevrolet Camaro had a fuel canister accidentally get caught on its fuel tank opening, detaching only after the car had traveled some distance. Despite these incidents, the race concluded with a win for local driver Tobías Martínez.

“

For a long time, we worked believing that the impact in our communities was reward enough. Today, this international recognition tells us that those efforts have not gone unnoticed.