Domenicali mourns loss of 'true champion' Gil de Ferran

Gil de Ferran, who died Friday, made his name as a driver mainly in America, where he won the iconic Indy500 in 2003. The Brazilian never raced in Formula 1, but was active in other positions in the F1 paddock as sporting director and advisor to McLaren. Stefano Domenicali, Formula 1's CEO, is therefore extremely saddened by De Ferran's unexpected death.

In a statement on X, Domenicali wrote: "I am very shocked and deeply saddened by the news that we have lost Gil de Ferran. He was an incredible person and a true champion, and we will all miss him greatly. Our thoughts are with his family at this very sad time.”

Carlos Sainz, currently racing for Ferrari, remembers De Ferran from their time together at McLaren. The Spaniard also commented on X: "I’m heartbroken to hear about the passing of my friend Gil.My thoughts are with his family and loved ones, specially with Angela, Anna and Luke. We will miss you. R.I.P."