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Fernando Alonso, McLaren, Formula One, Barcelona.

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Fernando Alonso was taken to hospital by helicopter after crashing in his McLaren during Formula One pre-season testing in Barcelona - McLaren then issued 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 centre, before he was airlifted to the Catalunya General Hospital where he is undergoing precautionary checks - and is reportedly being kept under observation overnight.

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 the team have 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 the following year.

Alonso has 32 career grand prix victories, the last of which was in Barcelona in 2013.

Ferrari tweeted: "All the best Fernando."

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