Bianchi went off in wet conditions late in the race and collided with a recovery vehicle that was removing the damaged Sauber of Adrian Sutil, who had crashed out a lap earlier.
The Frenchman was removed from the car and taken by ambulance to the nearby Mie General Hospital, where he will remain in intensive care.
Formula One racing’s governing body, the FIA, issued the statement below following the race. Subsequent media reports that Bianchi is out of surgery and breathing independently have yet to be confirmed by either the hospital or the Marussia team.
More news as it becomes available.
The FIA’s post-race statement in full:
"On lap 42, Adrian Sutil lost control of his car, spun and hit the tyre barrier on the outside of Turn 7. The marshals displayed double waved yellow flags before the corner to warn drivers of the incident. A recovery vehicle was dispatched in order to lift the car and take it to a place of safety behind the guard rail. While this was being done the driver of car 17, Jules Bianchi, lost control of his car, travelled across the run-off area and hit the back of the tractor.
"Once the marshals reported that the driver was injured, medical teams were dispatched and the safety car was deployed. These were followed by an extrication team and an ambulance. The driver was removed from the car, taken to the circuit medical centre and then by ambulance to Mie General Hospital.
"The CT scan shows that he has suffered a severe head injury and he is currently undergoing surgery. Following this he will be moved to intensive care where he will be monitored.
"Mie General Hospital will issue an update as soon as further information becomes available."