Justin Wilson: British IndyCar racer dies after horror accident during race

Tragedy: Justin Wilson, pictured in 2007 in Mexico City, died from head injuries sustained during a crash
Ronaldo Schemidt/AFP/Getty Images
Ramzy Alwakeel25 August 2015

British IndyCar driver Justin Wilson has died from injuries sustained when he was hit by crash debris during a race in Pennsylvania.

Ex-Formula One star Wilson, 37, was yesterday in a coma following Sunday’s collision at Pocono Raceway, 180 laps into a 200-lap race. IndyCar confirmed late last night he had died.

Wilson’s family paid an emotional tribute to the father-of-two after the news broke.

His younger brother Stefan, also an IndyCar driver, told Twitter followers his brother was a "champion".

"Can't even begin to describe the loss I feel right now,” he wrote. “He was my brother, my best friend, my role model and mentor. He was a champion!

"He never stopped giving & caring for others. Even at this time. He had pre-chosen to donate his organs to help others in need.

"I often told him, I just want to grow up to be half the man he is, as that will make me a pretty good man.

"He lived for this sport, he loved it. The only comfort I feel is that he lived a life he loved. RIP mate, I'll chuffing miss you."

Star: Justin Wilson holds up his third place trophy during the IZOD IndyCar Series Shell and Pennzoil Race 1 at Reliant Park in October 2013
Bob Levey/Getty Images

In a statement on his website, Stefan and his parents Keith and Lynne said: "Justin was a loving father and devoted husband, as well as a highly competitive racing driver who was respected by his peers.

"The family would like to thank the staff at the Lehigh Valley Health Network Cedar Crest Hospital, Pocono Raceway, Andretti Autosport, and the Verizon IndyCar Series as well as the entire racing community for the amazing outpouring of support from fans around the world."

Wilson had been racing for Andretti Autosport. He suffered a head injury when Sage Karam's car crashed in front of him during the race.

Fellow IndyCar and former Formula One driver Juan Pablo Montoya tweeted: "Tough day in motorsport today as we lose another great person and driver. RIP Justin. You will be missed. Thoughts and prayers for his family."

IndyCar and Nascar racer Alex Tagliani posted: "I will miss the good laughs of my 2007 teammate Justin Wilson & the great conversations in the paddock. I am very sad & hurt for his family."

Nascar driver Danica Patrick tweeted: "Wow, what a sad day. Justin Wilson was a good man. A great man. I had the pleasure of knowing him and pray for his family."

Four-time Nascar Cup Series champion Jeff Gordon said: "So sad to hear that we lost Justin Wilson today. Thoughts & prayers to his family and friends."

Originally from Sheffield, Wilson lived in Colorado.

He won seven IndyCar races in 12 seasons and also worked as an ambassador for dyslexic charities.

His death follows that of British IndyCar driver Dan Wheldon in 2011.

Additional reporting by Press Association

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