British driver Justin Wilson has died following injuries sustained in a crash in Sunday’s Pocono IndyCar race.
The 37-year-old had raced for both Minardi and Jaguar during his short Formula One race career, competing in 16 Grand Prix with a highest placed finish of 8th in the 2003 United States Grand Prix at Indianapolis.
After his stint in Formula One he moved over to American motorsport, starting in Champ Car racing where he won 4 races, finishing second in the championship in both 2006 and 2007.
In 2008 he joined the Indy Car roster following the merger with Champ Cars, winning another 2 races.
For most of 2015, Wilson was without a drive but he returned with Andretti for the races at Indianapolis and the Formula E Grand Prix in Moscow.
He was set to finish the season with Andretti and earlier this month Wilson had finished second at the race in Mid-Ohio.
But the race at Pocono ended in tragedy.
Wilson was struck by flying debris and suffering a serious head injury, he was airlifted to hospital and was in a coma before later dying of his injuries.
‘Justin’s elite ability to drive a race car was matched by his unwavering kindness, character and humility – which is what made him one of the most respected members of the paddock.
‘As we know, the racing industry is one big family, and our efforts moving forward will be focused on rallying around Justin’s family to ensure they get the support they need during this unbelievably difficult time.’ Chief executive of Hulman & Co, the parent company of IndyCar Mark Miles told the BBC.
Everyone’s thoughts at Vital F1 are with Justin’s family and friends at this terrible time.
Former British F1 driver Wilson killed in crash
