British IndyCar driver dies
Wilson was declared dead yesterday after suffering a severe head injury during an IndyCar race in Pennsylvania, plunging the sport into mourning and triggering calls for a review of safety measures.
Wilson, 37, had been in a coma since Sunday, when a piece of debris from another racer's car struck his helmet on the final laps of the "Tricky Triangle" at Pocono Raceway in the penultimate IndyCar Series race of the season.
Loved ones of the Sheffield-born Andretti Autosport racer had flown to be at his bedside at Lehigh Valley Health Network Cedar Crest Hospital in Allentown earlier Monday before his death was announced.
"This is a monumentally sad day for IndyCar and the motorsports community as a whole," said Mark Miles, chief executive of the parent company which runs IndyCar and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Wilson's younger brother Stefan, also a racing driver, paid tribute on Twitter.
Can't even begin to describe the loss I feel right now. He was my Brother, my best friend, my role model and mentor. He was a champion!
— Stefan Wilson (@stef_wilson) August 25, 2015
He never stopped giving & caring for others. Even at this time. He had pre-chosen to donate his organs to help others in need. #myherojw
— Stefan Wilson (@stef_wilson) August 25, 2015
He never stopped giving & caring for others. Even at this time. He had pre-chosen to donate his organs to help others in need. #myherojw
— Stefan Wilson (@stef_wilson) August 25, 2015
He lived for this sport, he loved it. The only comfort I feel is that he lived a life he loved! RIP mate, I'll chuffing miss you.
— Stefan Wilson (@stef_wilson) August 25, 2015
Andretti Autosport also paid tribute, describing Wilson as a "tremendous racer, a valuable member of the team."
"While Justin was only part of the Andretti lineup for a short time, it only took a second for him to forever become part of the Andretti family. His life and racing career is a story of class and passion surpassed by none," a statement said.
Legends of the motorsport world united in an outpouring of grief.
Terrible news flashed up on American TV.Justin dies from injuries sustained from Sunday's race.Deepest condolences to all the family R.I.P.
— Nigel Mansell CBE (@nigelmansell) August 25, 2015
Thoughts and prayers to his family, friends, and to the @IndyCar family. #RIPJustinWilson
— Dale Earnhardt Jr. (@DaleJr) August 25, 2015
#RIPJustinWilson, my thoughts are with his family and friends. So sad, difficult to accept.
— Fernando Alonso (@alo_oficial) August 25, 2015
I raced with Justin as far back as 1989 in Karting and remember his smile was infectious, such a lovely guy. #RIPJustin
— Jenson Button (@JensonButton) August 25, 2015
Wow, what a sad day. @justin_wilson was a good man. A great man. I had the pleasure of knowing him and pray for his family. 🙏🏼
— Danica Patrick (@DanicaPatrick) August 25, 2015
The #F1 community mourns the loss of Justin Wilson: http://t.co/LINXXAq2xT #RIPJustinWilson pic.twitter.com/d1Wk97LriL
— Formula 1 (@F1) August 25, 2015
JW I wish I could have been there to say goodbye. Told u how much u meant to me. Told u how much u inspired me to be better.Gone way to soon
— AJ Allmendinger (@AJDinger) August 25, 2015
Ur my boy forever. Love you @justin_wilson. One of the best ever. On and off the track. pic.twitter.com/kDZxxfj0jN
— AJ Allmendinger (@AJDinger) August 25, 2015
Most importantly his family. His beautiful wife and kids. His parents. His brother Stef. All of thoughts and prayers need to be with them.
— AJ Allmendinger (@AJDinger) August 25, 2015
As far as Justin Wilson is concerned, words can't really do justice to our turmoil, but here's a start @RACERmag http://t.co/3C4HYjWjjH
— David Malsher (@DavidMalsher) August 25, 2015
Wilson was hit by the nose cone of fellow driver Sage Karam's car after it spun out on lap 179 of the 200-lap race. The father of two was airlifted to the hospital immediately after the crash, and never regained consciousness.
Wilson had driven in major US open-wheel racing since the 2004 season. Here is the statement from the Wilson family.
(Photo via Twitter, @FollowAndretti)
Twitter - @ECRSportswave @SportswaveAndre