Zanardi loses legs in accident.

It has been confirmed that Italian driver Alex Zanardi has lost part of both his legs in the horrific accident that brought the inaugural CART race at the Lausitzring to a premature halt.

Zanardi's Mo Nunn Racing team broke the news as the double CART champion was undergoing surgery at Marzahn Hospital in Berlin.

According to the team's latest update, as of 1940 CET, Zanardi was undergoing surgery to repair extreme damage to his lower extremities. He lost a part of both of his legs in the accident - one above the knee and one below the knee. He also has a possible broken pelvis. He is breathing on his own, and has no other apparent internal injuries.

"We are devastated by the extent of Alex's injuries," admitted team owner Mo Nunn, "But we are so very thankful that he is on his way to surviving such a tremendous impact. All of our thoughts and prayers are with Alex and his family. He has quite a battle ahead of him but, knowing what a fighter Alex is, we're confident he'll be able to return home to be with his family and friends very soon."

The team has said that further medical updates will be issued as information is made available.