Sport

French driver Jules Bianchi ‘critical but stable’ in Japanese hospital

Family expected to see him on Tuesday after being delayed by Typhoon Phanfone

FIA Formula One medical rescue co-ordinator Dr Ian Roberts (right) talks with Marussia team principal John Booth (left) and Marussia president and sporting director Graeme Lowdon as they walk into the hospital where Jules Bianchi of France is hospitalised, in Yokkaichi, Japan. Photograph: Toru Hanai/Reuters

Mon Oct 6 2014 - 17:43

French Formula One driver Jules Bianchi is in a "critical but stable" condition following his accident at Sunday's Japanese Grand Prix.

The Marussia driver was left requiring surgery on a severe head injury after his car ploughed into the back of a tractor which had been rescuing the stricken Sauber of Adrian Sutil, who had spun off the Suzuka circuit on the previous lap.

An ambulance was sent to the scene immediately after Bianchi’s crash, which had knocked him unconscious, and the 25-year-old was taken to the Mie General Medical Center in Yokkaichi.

A spokesperson for the FIA, Formula One’s governing body, said on Monday that Bianchi’s condition was “critical but stable” and it is understood his family will finally see him on Tuesday after being delayed in getting to him due to Typhoon Phanfone.

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Earlier on Monday, Marussia issued a statement giving thanks for the support Bianchi had received.

They also asked for “patience and understanding” with regard to further medical updates after an initial one was released by the FIA on Sunday confirming the driver suffered “a severe head injury” and was to undergo surgery before being moved to intensive care.

Marussia’s statement read: “Following the accident involving Jules Bianchi during yesterday’s 2014 Formula One Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka Circuit, the Marussia F1 Team would like to acknowledge the huge outpouring of support and affection for Jules and the team at this very difficult time.

“With regard to the communication of information concerning Jules’ medical condition, we will respect, and be guided by, the wishes of the Bianchi family. Together with Jules’ care, they will remain our highest priority.

“Therefore, we would ask for patience and understanding with regard to further medical updates, which will be communicated in conjunction with the Mie General Medical Center in Yokkaichi, where Jules is being treated, when they feel it is appropriate.

“Representatives of the Marussia F1 Team and Scuderia Ferrari will remain at the hospital to support Jules and the Bianchi family.”

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