Thai police are looking into the unusual injury of Mika Salo in Bangkok.

      Mika Salo maintains that he doesn't believe he was intentionally attacked in Bangkok, despite initially worrying that he might have been stabbed. The former Formula 1 driver sustained a significant leg wound that required 28 stitches after experiencing what he called a "small bump" while crossing the street a few days prior. The story quickly gained traction in Finnish and international media, particularly after doctors suggested that the wound appeared to have been inflicted by a sharp knife.

      Media coverage in Thailand intensified due to concerns about the impact on the country's tourism image, as Thailand actively seeks to host a future Formula 1 race. However, in conversations with police and the media this week, Salo worked to de-escalate the situation. "I did not feel like I had been attacked," he stated. He now suspects that the injury may have simply been the result of accidental contact with a motorcycle license plate.

      He reiterated his belief that it wasn't an assault, citing that he didn't feel attacked and no belongings were stolen, as reported by Thai broadcaster PPTV. Nonetheless, Bangkok police are reviewing CCTV footage and looking into multiple reports of similar injuries sustained by other locals and tourists around the same period. Finnish media reported that hospital staff informed police that several patients presented with similar injuries that same night.

      Salo later sought to clarify reports that indicated police had "taken him in" for questioning. "The police called and asked if they could talk to me," he told Finnish outlet Uuno. "I wasn’t taken anywhere." The 59-year-old also expressed appreciation for the response from Thai authorities. "I have to praise the Thai police," Salo remarked. "They had security camera footage and more in no time. An injury to a tourist is a big deal for them here."

      Despite the alarming incident, Salo emphasized that he still views Thailand as safe and plans to return soon.