The motorsport world including Formula 1 drivers, led by triple F1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton, have rallied around British Formula Four driver Billy Monger who had his lower legs amputated after an horrific crash at the Donington Park circuit on Sunday, series organisers revealed.
The 17-year-old, who smashed at speed into the back of another car that had halted on the track during a Formula 4 race, was trapped in the wreckage for more than 90 minutes before being extricated and flown to hospital.
"Due to the injuries sustained and despite every effort, Billy has sadly had both lower legs amputated," the FIA sanctioned junior series, the first step on the single-seater ladder after karting, said in a statement.
"He has been kept in an induced coma while undergoing surgery, from which he is expected to be woken in the next few days."
A crowd-funding site was set up to raise funds for the teenager's medical treatment and recovery, with Formula One drivers joining the motorsport community in expressing support on Twitter.
"I have only just seen the news of this tragic incident. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, @BillyMonger" wrote Hamilton.
"Just watched the crash of @BillyMonger and can only say that life is so cruel...let's all help this young lad," commented former F1 racer Johnny Herbert, who suffered severe foot injuries in a junior series crash at Brands Hatch in 1988.
More Formula 1 reaction:
- Sergio Perez: "Let's help our fellow and his family thru this tough times! @BillyMonger."
- Mercedes AMG F1 Team: "Our thoughts and prayers are with fellow racer @BillyMonger and his family."
- Felipe Massa: "Hey guys, This boy Billy Monger had a huge accident and had to amputate both legs,let's help him."
- Jenson Button: "Hey guys this fellow racer Billy Monger had a big shunt this past weekend at Donnington and sadly Billy has had amputations to both legs. This guy needs our help so if you can please donate, I will be doing as much as I can to help this dude out. The donations will be used to fund the care, treatments and therapies required by Billy in the immediate future and going forward, helping him to return to a full and active life."
- Force India: "The horrifying accident of @BillyMonger touched everyone in motorsport. Help this young racer in his battle."
- JolyonPalmer: "Shocked and saddened to hear about @BillyMonger injuries. Let's all get behind him now."
- Marcus Ericsson: "All my thoughts with @BillyMonger and his family. Please donate and support."
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