The Formula One fraternity has thrown its support behind Australian speedway rider Leigh Adams, who sustained heavy injuries in a training accident.

While training for the Finke Desert race last month the 40-year-old crashed, suffering punctured lungs, fractured vertebrae and extensive damage to his spinal chord. A ten-time Australian champion, Adams retired from speedway racing in January after an illustrious career spanning two decades.

The outpouring of support within his homeland has been immeasurable, with Williams Technical Director Sam Michael now throwing his support behind the Leigh Adams Rehab Fund.

"He's basically the Peter Brock of speedway in Australia," says Michael of his friend. "Leigh is a die-hard racer and is not short of friends in the F1 paddock."

An online auction site is being set up to help with Adams' ongoing rehabilitation, with a number of items which will particularly appear to Formula One fans. "We'd like to make sure it gets as many people interested as possible," said Michael. Items include fully signed F1 car parts from Williams and Red Bull, factory tours, VIP race day passes for F1, WTCC & DTM including hospitality, driver experience days, and more.

Further information about the auction is available on the Leigh Adams Racing website.