Lewis Hamilton, 34, led tributes to Anthoine Hubert, who died at the age of 22 this afternoon in the Belgian Grand Prix. The Formula 2 racing driver was involved in a horrific crash and suffered a big impact from the car of American competitor Juan Manuel Correa at about 170mph at the Raidillon swerves. The FIA announced the driver’s death in a statement, which read: “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.”
Lewis took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message dedicated to Anthoine in view of his 12.5 million followers.
The Formula 1 star first shared a screenshot of a news report detailing the 22-year-old’s death and wrote across the image: “This is devastating. God rest your soul Anthoine.
“My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family today.”
Lewis, who is set to compete in the Belgian Grand Prix tomorrow, then posted another message on the social media platform highlighting the “risks” drivers face in the sport.
He wrote: “If a single one of you watching and enjoying this sport think for a second what we do is safe you’re hugely mistaken.
“All these drivers put their life on the line when they hit the track and people need to appreciate that in a serious way because it is not appreciated enough.
“Not from the fans nor some of the people actually working in the sport.”
Opening up about the French racing driver’s tragic death, Lewis continued: “Anthoine is a hero as far as I’m concerned, for taking the risk he did to chase his dreams.
“I’m so sad that this has happened. Let’s lift him up and remember him. Rest in peace brother.”
The British F1 champion went on to share a photo of Anthoine alongside the caption: “Remember him! Anthoine Hubert.”
In light of the upsetting news, Lewis concluded his posts by thanking fans for their support and instructed them to let their nearest and dearest know that they love them.
He wrote: “TeamLH, I want to let you know how much I appreciate you. Your support through all of these years.
“I honestly feel I wouldn’t be able to do this without you and that’s why I say we win and we lose together.”
Lewis went on to explain: “Sometimes we forget to tell one another things and so I’m taking this chance. I love you all.
“If you’re standing next to somebody you love, let them know.
“One day they are there and one day them may not be.”
