The world of motorsport is today mourning
the loss of a talented young driver, seen
as one of the rising stars of Formula One.
Jules Bianchi had been in a coma since suffering
a severe head injury in an accident at the
Japanese Grand Prix last October.
The 25-year-old Frenchman died at a hospital
in his home town of Nice last night.
In a statement announcing the news, Bianchi's
family said:
Jules fought right to the very end, as he
always did, but today his battle came to an
end.
The pain we feel is immense and indescribable.
Tributes have been paid to Bianchi from across
the racing community.
Former world champion Jenson Button said:
"Last night we lost a truly great guy and
a real fighter"
Bianchi's former teammate Max Chilton said:
"No words can describe what his family & the
sport have lost. All I can say is it was a
pleasure knowing and racing you."
Jules Bianchi is the first Formula One driver
to be killed from injuries sustained during
a grand prix event since Ayrton Senna 21 years
ago.
He will be remembered as a driver of great
ability, perhaps even a champion in waiting,
and a man well-loved by the F1 community.
