Bianchi’s care and family are highest priority – Marussia

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

A spokesperson for the FIA, Formula 1’s governing body, said that Bianchi’s condition was “critical but stable” and it is understood his family will finally see him today after being delayed in getting to him due to Typhoon Phanfone.

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 (Sunday’s) 2014 Formula 1 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.”

The F1 season moves on to Sochi in Russia for next weekend’s race and it remains to be seen whether or not Marussia – who started out as Yorkshire-based Manor Racing – will take part.

Bianchi’s crash saw Sunday’s event halted at lap 44, with victory being awarded to Lewis Hamilton.

Former FIA president Max Mosley believes ‘’everything was done as it should have been’’ in relation to safety.

Asked if F1 is doing everything right to secure the safety of its drivers, Mosley said: ‘’I think it is.

‘’I think what happened in Suzuka was very unfortunate, a freak accident. But I can’t really fault any of the people involved – the marshals or the race director, any of those people.”