Two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Dan Wheldon (33) has died after his car was involved in a 15-car pileup at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
The Briton, driving from the back of the field for a prize of $5 million, was in the middle of the pack when he drove into a tangle of cars yesterday.
Unable to avoid the crash unfolding before him, Wheldon clipped another car and went hurtling through the air. His car burst into flames as it struck a fence.
Two hours later, track officials announced Wheldon dead.
With the speed - recorded close to 350km/h during practice - and a crowded 34-car field, concerns had been raised about aggressive driving early in the 200-lap race.
The crash happened when two cars touched tires, giving no one time to react.
Several cars burst into flames and debris covered the track nearly halfway up the straightaway. Video replays showed Wheldon's car turning over as it went airborne before striking the catch fence, which sits over a barrier designed to absorb some of the impact when when cars make contact.
Rescue workers were at Wheldon's car quickly.
"It's unfortunate that early on in the race they've got to be racing so close. ...," Team Penske owner Roger Penske said. "You always worry about those at these mile-and-a-halves at the speed and with this many cars."
Three other drivers, including championship contender Will Power, were hurt in the crash.
Wheldon was airlifted from the track to University Medical Centre.
News of his death came from IndyCar chief executive Randy Bernard.
"IndyCar is very sad to announce that Dan Wheldon has passed away from unsurvivable injuries," he said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family today. IndyCar, its drivers and owners, have decided to end the race."
In his honour, drivers, many openly crying, took part in a five-lap salute around the 2.4km oval as thousands of fans stood and cheered from the grandstand.