Formula 1 teams and drivers have paid tribute to former Marussia test driver Maria de Villota following the news that she has been found dead in a hotel room in Seville.
Medics attempted to resuscitate De Villota, who was the daughter of former Formula 1 driver Emilio, at the scene, but their efforts failed.
The 33-year-old recovered from a crash she was involved in ahead of the British Grand Prix last year, but lost her right eye as a result, as well as suffering head and facial injuries.
The world of F1 has been paying tributes to the Spaniard throughout the day following the news.
"Our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Maria de Villota following the tragic news of her passing today. Her courage, determination and hope were an example and inspiration to many. She will be sadly missed by our sport."
Mercedes
"We'd like to echo the thoughts of the whole paddock and express our deepest condolences on the news of Maria de Villota's passing. RIP."
Caterham
R.I.P. Maria Villota :(
— Sebastian Vettel (@Sebas_Vettel) October 11, 2013
"Even though we're far away, the whole team's hearts and minds are with the family of Maria de Villota at this terrible, terrible time..."
McLaren
"Very sad news coming from Spain about brave Maria de Villota passing away. Our thoughts are with Maria's family and friends in this moment."
Force India
So sad news emerging from Spain regarding Maria de Villota, my sincerest condolences to her family and friends
— Heikki Kovalainen (@H_Kovalainen) October 11, 2013
"We are shocked to hear about the death of Maria de Villota. Our sincerest condolences and sympathy to her family for this tragic loss."
Sauber
"It is with great sadness that we learned a short time ago of the news that Maria de Villota has passed away. Our thoughts and prayers are with Maria's family and friends at this very difficult time."
Marussia
"It's hard to talk about Maria de Villota right now, as I had only just taken my helmet off, when I was told about her death and at the moment, I still can't believe it and need a while to stop and think about it. Of course, it's very sad news for the world of motorsport as Maria was loved by everyone. Now, all we can do is pray for her and for her family."
Fernando Alonso
"The Williams F1 Team would like to express its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Maria de Villota following the sad news emerging from Spain today that she has passed away."
Williams
