Canadian IndyCar driver James Hinchcliffe posted a picture of himself in his hospital bed as the Indianapolis 500 began on Sunday.

The photo -- of Hinchcliffe in his hospital gown with girlfriend Kirsten -- was posted on the Oakville, Ont., native's Instagram and Twitter accounts.

"Kills me not being there, but wishing all 33 (drivers) a fast and safe day," the caption read.

Hinchcliffe was injured in a practice run last Monday when he slammed into the turn three wall.

A piece of his suspension broke and pierced his left thigh, leading to a life-threatening wound. He was rushed into surgery from the race track in critical condition.

With files from The Associated Press