What we all feared is true: F1 test driver Maria de Villota passed away in her hotel room due to complications from her horrific crash in July of last year.
The information comes from a statement released by de Villota's family, as reported on Sky Sports F1.
Maria left us while she was sleeping, approximately at 6am, as a consequence of the neurological injuries that she suffered in July of 2012, according to what the forensic doctor has told us.
It's terrible to hear of a driver of an F1 car being killed from a horrifying crash at a circuit (though the crash happened on the way to the pits at a straight-line test), but the family statement continues in a more uplifting tone.
Maria is gone, but she has left us a very clear message of joy and hope, which is helping the family move on in these moments.
Photo Credit: AP
Racing Driver, Badass Maria de Villota Died Because Of Her Crash