Vitor Meira And Raphael Matos Crash Late In Indy 500

INDIANAPOLIS — Veteran Vitor Meira has broken two vertebra in his lower back and will spend at least two days in an Indianapolis hospital after a scary crash late in the Indy 500.

In the closing laps, Meira, last year's runner-up, collided with rookie Raphael Matos, sending Meira's car sliding along the wall on two wheels.

Track officials say Meira will be fitted for a back brace at Methodist Hospital, where he was taken for further evaluation. He's not expected to have surgery. Earlier in the race, Meira's car caught on fire on pit road.

Matos bruised his right knee and was released from the infield medical center.