French Driver Dies After Historic F1 Championship Crash at Zandvoort

After a horrendous crash that occurred at last weekend's FIA Masters Historic Formula One Championship, French racer David Ferrer passed away. The 61-year old was driving a March 701 in the classic series, and following the accident, was resuscitated on site before being transferred via airlift to an Amsterdam hospital. He was in critical condition upon his arrival to the Dutch facility before passing away, according to a report from the FIA.

The motorsport governing body released a statement on the death of Mr. Ferrer, extending its support to his loved ones:

"The FIA regrets to advise that the driver David Ferrer has unfortunately succumbed to injuries sustained in the incident at Zandvoort. The FIA extends its sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Mr Ferrer at this difficult time."

British driver Paul Tattersall was following behind Ferrer at last weekend's event in an Ensign N179, as Motorsport.com reports. His grievance-filled recount of the accident was as follows:

“I had a split second to decide whether to go left or right. Thank heavens I chose right or I’d have hit David.”

The medical staff at Zandvoort promptly arrived at the scene to tend to Ferrer, and their efforts towards saving the Frenchman were described as “exemplary”. FIA technical scrutineer John Gentry said the wreck was "right up there" as one of the most harsh crashes he's seen in his long racing tenure.

Mourning the loss of another member in the racing community is always tragic, and we at The Drive offer our condolences to Ferrer's family and loved ones.