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July 17 marks the 10th anniversary of the tragic death of Jules Bianchi. Motorsport Week takes a look back at one of modern-day F1’s biggest ‘what if’ stories.
July 17, 2024, will mark the 10th anniversary of the tragic death of Jules Bianchi, a day that still holds great significance in the world of motorsport. Bianchi’s untimely passing put an end to a promising career and left Formula 1 fans with a lingering sense of ‘what if’.
Despite being a talented driver, Bianchi’s time in F1 was marked by his association with the Marussia team, a backmarker outfit with limited resources. His performances in the 2013 and 2014 seasons showcased his skill and potential, particularly his standout drive in Monaco in 2014.
Bianchi’s close ties to Ferrari added to his allure, with many believing that he was destined to drive for the iconic team in the near future. His future seemed bright, especially with speculation swirling about Fernando Alonso’s potential departure from Ferrari.
Tragically, Bianchi’s career took a devastating turn during the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka, where a crash in treacherous conditions ultimately led to his passing in July 2015. His death marked not only the loss of a talented driver but also sparked changes in F1 safety protocols, leading to advancements like the Virtual Safety Car and the Halo system. Bianchi’s legacy lives on as a reminder of the risks and rewards of professional motorsport.
