Ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps, the Formula 1 circus and sideshows are in sombre mood as memories of fallen Formula 2 driver Anthoine Hubert, who died in a horrific accident during the race last year, with many paying tributes to their lost friend.
The Frenchman, stolen from the world at the age of 22, in his honour Formula 2 have decided to retire the #19 which Anthoine carried on his car.
Pierre Gasly was pictured laying a wreath on the track on Thursday as a silent pilgrimage made its way past the location of the incident; he said before the weekend in the Ardennes, "This year, returning to Belgium will also be a sad moment because it is just one year ago that Anthoine lost his life after that terrible accident in the F2 race in Spa.
"I had known him since I was seven years old in karting, we were in the same school together organised by the French motorsport federation, from when I was 13 to 19 and we shared an apartment for six years. I think everyone in the paddock will take time to think of him," added the AlphaTauri driver.
His colleagues sharing those sentiments leading up to the weekend in Belgium:
Lando Norris: "This weekend we take the time remember Anthoine Hubert, who tragically lost his life at Spa last year. The whole racing community was shocked and saddened by what happened, and he’ll be in our thoughts as we go racing again this year.”
Carlos Sainz: "As we go to Spa again this year, we’ll take the time to remember Anthoine, who sadly passed away there last year. He was an exciting young talent that was taken from us too soon, and we’ll always remember him wherever we race, but even more in Spa.”
Andreas Seidl: "I would like to echo the comments of both drivers as we remember the loss of Anthoine Hubert at the Belgian Grand Prix last year. Our thoughts remain with his family and friends and we wish Juan Manuel Correa well in his continued recovery.”
Toto Wolff: "This weekend will also be the first time that we return to Belgium after the tragic loss of Anthoine Hubert last year. It was a dark day for the entire motorsport community and our thoughts will be with his family and friends as we remember him this weekend."
Formula 2 confirmed on their website: "This weekend, to honour Anthoine, a logo has been specifically created using his initials, F2 racing number, and a key element of his helmet design – a star. It will appear in all F2 and Formula 3 communications to celebrate Anthoine’s formidable achievements and his unique character.
"In a show of unity, teams from Formula 1, F2 and F3 will display this logo on their cars throughout the weekend, showing that Anthoine will always be part of our racing family.
"A minute of silence will be observed on the starting grid ahead of Saturday’s Feature Race, as the F2 family remembers Anthoine and shows his family and loved ones our unwavering support.
"On Sunday, F1 will also hold a minute of silence ahead of the Grand Prix, with many of Anthoine’s friends keeping his memory close to their hearts," concluded the statement.
This weekend, and always, we will race for Anthoine. You can join us in honouring our friend by using #AH19 all week long.
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