Marussia F1 Driver Jules Bianchi Passes Away At The Age Of 25

Nine months after his terrible accident during the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix, Jules Bianchi’s family has confirmed that he has sadly passed away at the age of 25.

The Frenchman had been in a coma ever since his collision with a recovery vehicle at Suzuka, which saw him suffer severe brain injuries. He died on Friday night at the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire in Nice, France.

The statement released by the Bianchi 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. We wish to thank the medical staff at Nice’s CHU who looked after him with love and dedication. We also thank the staff of the General Medical Center in the Mie Prefecture (Japan) who looked after Jules immediately after the accident, as well as all the other doctors who have been involved with his care over the past months.

"Furthermore, we thank Jules’ colleagues, friends, fans and everyone who has demonstrated their affection for him over these past months, which gave us great strength and helped us deal with such difficult times. Listening to and reading the many messages made us realise just how much Jules had touched the hearts and minds of so many people all over the world.

"We would like to ask that our privacy is respected during this difficult time, while we try to come to terms with the loss of Jules."

Tributes have flooded in for Bianchi on social media from former team-mates, colleagues and fans. He was a popular member of the F1 paddock, known for his big smile and aggressive driving style.

Following wins and championship success in feeder championships, he made his Formula 1 debut for Marussia in 2013 and impressed despite the team’s lack of competitiveness. A member of the Ferrari Driver Academy, he was retained for the following season and scored Marussia’s first ever points in the sport with an inspired and stunning drive to ninth in Monaco.

Our thoughts are with Bianchi’s family and friends at this difficult time. Rest in peace Jules, you will be missed by many and never forgotten. #ForzaJules