Toro Rosso principal Franz Tost has revealed that driver Carlos Sainz is conscious after he was involved in a major crash during the third practice session ahead of the Russian Grand Prix.

Sainz lost control of his car ahead of Turn 13 before his Toro Rosso ploughed into the barrier, and in the immediate aftermath of the incident, there was concern for the Spaniard who received treatment in his car.

However, after the 21-year-old gave the thumbs up to media and supporters as he was carted into an ambulance, Tost confirmed that it appeared that Sainz had avoided serious injury.

Tost is quoted by BBC Sport as saying: "He is conscious and with the doctors. We don't know what his conditions are but so far it seems he is okay.

"It seems the car got lost under braking and we must find out why."

Sainz is unlikely to take part in this afternoon's qualifying session, while no decision has been made regarding his potential participation in tomorrow's grand prix.