‘A shining talent’: Formula One and motorsport pay tribute to Jules Bianchi

The motorsport community has reacted to the passing of Formula One driver Jules Bianchi.

Jules Bianchi passed away on Saturday morning. Mark Thompson / Getty

Formula One and the wider world of motorsport mourned the death of young Frenchman Jules Bianchi yesterday, nine months after the Marussia driver suffered critical head injuries at last year’s Japanese Grand Prix.

John Booth, Manor Marussia team principal

“He has left an indelible mark on all our lives and will forever be part of everything we have achieved, and everything we will strive for going forward. Jules was a shining talent. He was destined for great things in our sport; success he so richly deserved. It has been an honour to be able to consider him our race driver, our teammate, and of course our friend.”

Alexander Rossi, Former Marussia test driver

“Thank you for shining a light in this sport and being the driver that we all wanted to be. Thank you for being the one per cent behind the wheel.”

Daniel Ricciardo, Australian F1 driver

“I’ll never forget you and the good times we had. Going to miss you bro.”

Lewis Hamilton, Double F1 world champion

“A sad, sad day today, guys. Please pray for Jules’ loved ones. RIP Jules. God bless.

GALLERY: The life and times of Jules Bianchi, 1989-2015 — in pictures

Jenson Button, 2009 world champion

“Last night we lost a truly great guy and a real fighter #RIP Jules my sincerest condolences to his family and friends.”

Romain Grosjean, French F1 driver, Lotus

“Yesterday we lost one of the best guys and best drivers I’ve ever met. I’ll miss you so much my friend ...”

Bruno Senna, Former F1 driver, nephew of Ayrton

“My strong thoughts go to Jules Bianchi’s family! Hope the lessons we learnt will stop more tragedies like these from happening! RIP.”

Alain Prost, French four times world champion

“He definitely was one of the pilots who had the more chances to join a great team. He was a real fighter, I had the chance to know him, to make some bike rides with him, I saw how competitive he was. I think a mistake was made that has cost a lot.”

Mario Andretti, 1978 F1 world champion

“My heartfelt condolences to the Jules Bianchi family for this very sad ending of a promising young life. My prayers are with you”.

Alan Jones, 1980 F1 champion

“Rest in peace Jules Bianchi. A courageous young man. We will miss you.”

Dario Franchitti, Three times Indy 500 winner

“Rest in peace Jules Bianchi. This sport that we love can be very cruel.”

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