Press update,
Jules Bianchi: Driver is in 'critical but stable condition' say family
The family of Marussia driver Jules Bianchi have issued an update on his condition after he suffered
severe head injuries at the Japanese Grand Prix.
The 25-year-old from France had surgery on Sunday after his car hit a recovery vehicle that was removing another car.
The family revealed he suffered a
diffuse axonal injury and is regarded as
"critical but stable".
The FIA, world motorsport's governing body, have asked race director Charlie Whiting for a report on the crash.
What is diffuse axonal injury?
By Michelle Roberts, BBC News Online Health Editor
If the brain moves back and forth in the skull as a result of rapid acceleration or deceleration, such as in a car crash, damage can occur
The shearing action disrupts the brain's architecture and kills brain cells
In response to the injury, the brain swells and this increasing pressure can restrict blood flow, causing further brain damage
Assessing how much damage has occurred can take time - some damage may well be irreversible
"Jules remains in the Intensive Care Unit of the Mie General Medical Centre in Yokkaichi. He has suffered a diffuse axonal injury [when the head is rapidly accelerated or decelerated] and is in a critical but stable condition," the family said.
"The medical professionals at the hospital are providing the very best treatment and care and we are grateful for everything they have done for Jules since his accident."
The statement added: "This is a very difficult time for our family, but the messages of support and affection for Jules from all over the world have been a source of great comfort to us. We would like to express our sincere appreciation."