Anthoine Hubert: Formula 2 driver dies in crash at Belgian Grand Prix
The 22-year-old was involved in a 160mph collision with Juan Manuel Correa during the second lap of a sprint race.
Sunday 1 September 2019 13:58, UK
French Formula 2 driver Anthoine Hubert has died following a crash at the Belgian Grand Prix, on the Spa-Francorchamps circuit.
The 22-year-old was involved in a 160mph collision with Juan Manuel Correa during the second lap of a sprint race.
Correa is in a stable condition in hospital.
Broadcasters cut away from the crash quickly, and no replays were shown, but footage emerged on social media that appeared to show Hubert slamming into the barriers on the far side of the track, before sliding across the circuit.
Hubert raced for the British-owned Arden team, run by Garry Horner.
Organisers have said the race, which Hubert was in, will now be cancelled.
A statement released by the sport's governing body, said: "The Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) regrets to advise that a serious incident involving cars #12, #19 and #20 occurred at 17:07 on 31/08/19 as a part of the FIA Formula 2 Sprint Race at Spa-Francorchamps, round 17 of the season.
"The scene was immediately attended by emergency and medical crews, and all drivers were taken to the medical centre.
"As a result of the incident, the FIA regrets to inform that the driver of car #19, Antoine Hubert (FRA), succumbed to his injuries, and passed away at 18:35.
"The driver of car #12, Juan-Manuel Correa (USA), is in a stable condition and is being treated at the CHU Liege hospital. More information on his condition will be provided when it becomes available.
"The driver of car #20 Giuliano Alesi (FRA) was checked and declared fit at the medical centre.
"The FIA is providing support to the event organisers and the relevant authorities, and has commenced an investigation into the incident."
Racers and teams have been sharing tributes, with Lewis Hamilton's Mercedes team saying: "The entire Mercedes family sends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Anthoine Hubert, and his Arden and Renault teams on this tragic day."
British driver Lando Norris, who made the step up from Formula 2 last year, simply tweeted: "Rest in peace Anthoine."
Hubert was the reigning Formula 3 champion, and had already won two races this season, lying eighth in the championship.
The Belgian Formula 1 Grand Prix is set to go ahead as planned.
Spa-Francorchamps had been a historically notorious track in motor racing history with a string of fatalities during the 1960s and 1970s meaning the circuit was redeveloped.
In June 1960, two British drivers, Chris Bristow and Alan Stacey were killed on the track within 15 minutes of each other.