Henry Surtees, the son of 1964 Formula One world champion John Surtees, has died following an accident in a Formula Two race at Brands Hatch on Sunday.
The 18-year-old was struck on the head by a wheel and tyre from the car of Jack Clarke, who had spun into the wall exiting Westfield Bend
Surtees then failed to negotiate the following Sheene Corner, running straight off the track and into the barrier.
Surtees was attended to by track medical staff before being airlifted to the Royal London hospital, where he died.
Surtees graduated to F2 this season from Formula Renault, and had taken his first podium finish in the series with third place in Saturday's race at Brands Hatch.
His father said: "Henry had followed his heart from the time he first sat in a kart. He treated seriously the balance between motorsport and school, having just finished his A-levels.
"The world beckoned and he was thriving on the freedom to concentrate on his motorsport. Despite bad luck in his motorsport, he had shown himself to be one with the possibilities of reaching the very top.
"Despite his young age he had shown maturity, technical understanding and speed. Most importantly he was a nice person and a loving son. He will be deeply missed."
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It is a very sad moment that
It is a very sad moment that John Surtees has lost his son in a F2 car accident. The person has lost his son in F2 accidents in which champion in the year 1966. The person was struck in the head and this increased the scrutiny of the people. Many people are not interested in taking part in the game as people are more afraid to get died or injured. I am also sorry for John Surtees.
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