Jenson Button and Damon Hill have paid tribute to Indy 500 winner Gil De Ferran, who has died aged 56.
The Brazilian reportedly suffered a heart attack in Florida.
Button wrote on Instagram: "Still in shock that we lost one of the good ones so young, one of the best behind the wheel and all round great guy Gil De Ferran. I will miss that wonderful smile, rest in peace my friend."
Fellow Formula One world champion Hill tweeted: "One of the nicest guys I ever met. He made me laugh. He got it.
"Jesus, Gil, you left too soon. My sincere condolences to his lovely family and all who knew him (there are many, many, many) and all at McLaren. He was a fighter and a winner. Big loss."
I am shocked and devastated to hear of the loss of our great friend and teammate. I’ve raced with Gil all over the world and watched him win some of the biggest races. He’s been a great friend for over 20 years and will be greatly missed and never forgotten. My deepest… pic.twitter.com/vJBbnK650F
— Zak Brown (@ZBrownCEO) December 30, 2023
Such sad news about Gil de Ferran passing away. Gil was such a cool, nice, smart and fast guy. I send my energy and thoughts to his Family and friends in such difficult times when he clearly left them and our world much too early. RIP Gil
— alex wurz (@alex_wurz) December 30, 2023
Stefano Domenicali:
— F1 Media (@F1Media) December 30, 2023
“I am very shocked and deeply saddened by the news that we have lost Gil de Ferran. He was an incredible person and a true champion, and we will all miss him greatly. Our thoughts are with his family at this very sad time.” pic.twitter.com/pCfuTdpxG8
My heart sank at the news of Gil de Ferran's death. It's heart-wrenching. Thinking of him now and savoring every conversation. He will be missed by so many. A wonderful man and a dear and loyal friend. pic.twitter.com/aPVXjlKwY7
— Mario Andretti (@MarioAndretti) December 30, 2023
De Ferran won the Indy 500 for Team Penske in 2003.
Team boss Roger Penske said in a statement: "We are terribly saddened to hear about today's tragic passing of Gil De Ferran. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Angela, Anna, Luke and the entire De Ferran family.
"Gil defined class as a driver and as a gentleman. As an INDYCAR Champion and an Indianapolis 500 winner, Gil accomplished so much during his career, both on and off the track.
"Gil was beloved by so many. He was a great friend to the Team Penske and INDYCAR family, as well as the entire international motorsports community. Gil's passing is a terrible loss and he will be deeply missed."
