Marussia: Bianchi's situation 'remains challenging'

The Marussia team have released an update on the medical condition of driver Jules Bianchi, who suffered a severe head injury in a serious accident at the recent Japanese Grand Prix.

Bianchi remains critical but stable in the Mie General Medical Center in Yokkaichi, and the following statement was issued at the request of his family and in conjunction with the hospital:

“The past nine days have been extremely difficult for Jules and his family. As a consequence of the accident at Suzuka, a number of medical challenges have needed to be overcome and the situation remains challenging due to the diffuse axonal traumatic brain injury Jules has sustained.

“Jules remains in a critical but stable condition in the Intensive Care Unit of Mie General Medical Center in Yokkaichi. The Bianchi family continue to be comforted by the thoughts and prayers of Jules’ many fans and the motor sport community. In particular, the many demonstrations of support and affection during the course of the Russian Grand Prix in Sochi were of enormous comfort to Jules’ parents and the relatives and friends also present at the hospital.

“The family will provide further medical updates when appropriate.”

Bianchi went off in wet conditions late in the Suzuka race and collided with a recovery vehicle that was removing the damaged Sauber of Adrian Sutil, who had crashed out a lap earlier.