A statement from the family of Jules Bianchi has revealed the full extent of the injuries suffered by the Frenchman during the Japanese Grand Prix.
The Marussia F1 driver suffered a diffuse axonal injury and remains in a critical but stable condition in the intensive care at the Mie General Medical Center in Yokkaichi.
The injury is usually caused as the result of a rapid acceleration or deceleration of the head and affects the nerves of the brain, and is one of the most common tyres of traumatic brain injury.
Bianchi’s family has also thanked the messages of support from all over the world they have received since the crash on Sunday, and thanked the medical team for providing all the necessary treatment and care.
“This is a very difficult time for our family, but the messages of support and affection for Jules from all over the world have been a source of great comfort to us,” read the statement. “We would like to express our sincere appreciation.
“Jules remains in the Intensive Care Unit of the Mie General Medical Center in Yokkaichi. He has suffered a diffuse axonal injury and is in a critical but stable condition. The medical professionals at the hospital are providing the very best treatment and care and we are grateful for everything they have done for Jules since his accident.
“We are also grateful for the presence of Professor Gerard Saillant, President of the FIA Medical Commission, and Professor Alessandro Frati, Neurosurgeon of the University of Rome La Sapienza, who has travelled to Japan at the request of Scuderia Ferrari. They arrived at the hospital today and met with the medical personnel responsible for Jules’ treatment, in order to be fully informed of his clinical status so that they are able to advise the family. Professors Saillant and Frati acknowledge the excellent care being provided by the Mie General Medical Center and would like to thank their Japanese colleagues.
“The hospital will continue to monitor and treat Jules and further medical updates will be provided when appropriate.”
