An idyllic day for motor racing, under clear blue skies and late-summer sunshine on a picturesque track in Belgium, ended with the death of a 22-year-old French driver on Saturday.
Formula Two driver Anthoine Hubert died at the Spa-Francorchamps track after a heavy crash at the F2 Belgian Grand Prix.
The Frenchman lost his life at the high-speed circuit after an estimated 257 km/h collision with 20-year-old US driver Juan-Manuel Correa’s car, as they accelerated uphill and then out of the notorious Eau Rouge corner on lap 2.
Motorsport’s governing body FIA said Hubert “succumbed to his injuries, and passed away at 18:35” local time at the on-site medical centre.
Hubert raced for the British-owned Arden team run by Garry Horner, the father of Red Bull boss Christian Horner, and was a member of the Renault Sport Academy.
Renault’s Formula One star Daniel Ricciardo was among the motor sport fraternity to express their sadness.
“The last few hours have been incredibly tough for our community. We lost Anthoine today,” the Australian posted on Instagram.
“So sad to see our sport take another so young. May his spirit shine on. Deepest thoughts are with his family & friends, sending all the love and warmth.
“That extends to Juan Manuel also who was involved in the accident.”
McLaren addressed its “heartfelt condolences to Anthoine’s family and loved ones, his colleagues at the Arden team, and the entire F2 community.”
Five-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton wrote on Instagram: “This is devastating. God rest your soul Anthoine. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family today.”
The French Automobile Federation said it was “in shock” after hearing of Hubert’s death.
Many other teams and drivers expressed their sympathies about Hubert, who was eighth in the championship standings.
The FIA’s statement gave details of the other two drivers involved: the Ecuador-born Correa – in his rookie season – and Giuliano Alesi, the son of former F1 Ferrari driver Jean Alesi.
Correa, who races for the Sauber Junior team, was said to be “in a stable condition” at Liege hospital while 19-year-old rookie Alesi was checked and declared fit at the Spa medical centre.
FIA said it is investigating the fatal accident, which happened in good weather and dry track conditions.