CAPE TOWN, Western Cape - F1 drivers took to social media to pay tribute to driver Jules Bianchi who died after severe injuries sustained in a 2014 crash.
Reuters reported on Saturday (July 18) that he had died nine months after being placed in a medically induced coma following a horror crash at the 2014 Japanese GP.
He was 25.
WELL LOVED, RESPECTED
Bianchi had been in a coma since the crash at Suzuka in October 2014. He died in a hospital in Nice, not far from his parents' home in the south of France.
F1 drivers and fans paid their respects to their colleague, posting pictures and messages on social media platforms:
McLaren driver Fernando Alonso said: "Friend, companion, talent , smile . Eternal. Rest in peace Jules . Always nosotros (Us)."
Amigo, compañero, talento, sonrisa. Eterno. Descansa en paz Jules. Siempre con nosotros.??
— Fernando Alonso (@alo_oficial) July 18, 2015
McLaren driver Jenson Button said:
Last night we lost a truly great guy and a real fighter #RIPJules my sincerest Condolences to his family and friends.
— Jenson Button (@JensonButton) July 18, 2015
Follow the timeline leading up to his death as well as F1 driver and fan reactions: