Bianchi undergoing surgery following 'severe head injury'

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F1 Grand Prix, GP Japan, Circuit Suzukajp

Jules Bianchi has sustained "severe head injury" in today's crash on lap 47 of the Japanese Grand Prix. The Frenchman is currently undergoing surgery at Mie hospital in Japan.

Going off in Turn 7, the 25 year old Frenchman crashed with his Marussia into a crane where marshalls were working to get Adrian Sutil's Sauber out of the way, following his crash one lap earlier, at the very same location.

The race was subsequently red flagged when it became obvious Bianchi has sustained serious injuries. He was transported with an ambulance to the Mie University Hospital, 10 minutes away from the circuit. While the medical helicopter was present and available, it was not used due to wind and rain.

Bianchi's condition is considered critical and he was unconscious during transport to the hospital. He is undergoing surgery and will later be moved to intensive care.

A statement released by the FIA reads: ”The CT scan shows that he has suffered a severe head injury and is currently undergoing surgery. Following this, he will be moved to intensive care where he will be monitored.

“Mie General Hospital will issue an update as soon as further information becomes available.”

The statement also clarified that marshals had indeed been waving double waved yellows ahead of the scene of the accident.

As a result of the accident, celebrations after the race were very much subdued, with drivers at the press conference making it a priority to explain their support for the promising talent.