Video: watch a FR 2.0 racer get massive, massive air

One of the reasons for the sudden and terrifying rise of SUVS is, we’re told, that their higher seating position affords the driver a better view of the road, thus inspiring confidence.

However, there is – as Formula Renault 2.0 driver Ferdinand Habsburg demonstrates in the video above – another, rather quicker method of achieving a birds-eye view of the tarmac ahead. Not an especially confidence-inspiring method, true, but a mighty invigorating one.

Racing at Silverstone this weekend, young Habsburg (yep, he’s a descendent of the grand Austrian dynasty) was punted into the air after making contact with the car in front.

After several seconds of graceful flight – complete with spin, so as to afford a full view of the glamorous surrounds of the Northamptonshire track – the 18-year-old returned to earth with a bang, a barrel roll completing the trick.

All the drivers involved in the incident thankfully walked away without injury, but the accident will continue to fuel the debate around the safety of open-cockpit racers.

Fast-forward through to the minute mark to see Habsburg’s mighty shunt in real time...