Marussia F1 driver Jules Bianchi 'not breathing unaided despite reports'

Marussia Formula 1 driver Jules Bianchi reportedly continues to rely on a respirator in hospital, despite some media outlets claiming that the Frenchman is breathing independently.

The 25-year-old suffered a severe head injury after colliding with a recovery vehicle that was tending to Adrian Sutil's Sauber at Suzuka during the rain-affected Japanese Grand Prix on Sunday.

The FIA confirmed that the driver underwent a CT scan prior to having surgery, but according to Sky Sports News, Bianchi remains in a very critical condition and is not breathing unaided in hospital despite some reports stating otherwise.

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton extended his lead at the top of the Drivers' Championship standings after winning the race, which was stopped after 46 laps.