Bianchi family sues FIA, Formula One Group and Marussia team

« The death of Jules Bianchi was avoidable. »

These are the words from the statement of Master Julian Chamberlayne, the lawyer dispatched to the family of the unfortunate driver, who died on July 17, 2015. Acting on their behalf, the lawyer announced this Thursday that he would pursue legal action against the FIA, the Marussia team, and the Formula One Group.

While driving a single-seater for the British team, the French hopeful collided with a recovery vehicle during the 41st lap of the Japanese Grand Prix, held in torrential rain. Suffering from severe brain injuries, Jules Bianchi was placed in a deep coma upon arrival at the hospital. Transferred to Nice, he succumbed to his injuries nine months later.

We demand justice for Jules and we want to restore the truth about the decisions that led to our son’s accident.

Philippe Bianchi points out the mistakes made in the organization and management of the events that led to the unfolding of this race, which took place while Typhoon Phanfone was raging in the Japanese sky. The family therefore wishes to obtain answers to all its questions.

Subsequent to this accident, let’s recall that the FIA had prepared a 396-page investigation report. A report that primarily blamed Jules Bianchi, who had not slowed down enough to avoid losing control under the double yellow flags waved following the off-track excursion of Adrian Sutil’s Sauber one lap earlier.

« If the drivers adhere to the double yellow flag indications, then neither they nor the marshals should be put in danger ». The FIA had considered that « the procedures carried out following Sutil’s accident were in compliance with the regulations. »

Similarly, the Marussia team was deemed not responsible despite the failure of the FailSafe procedure, which was supposed to cut the engine and reduce speed in the event of a likely impact if the car went off track. But such explanations are contested by the Bianchi family and the lawyer involved: “It is very surprising that the FIA panel reached such a conclusion, blaming Jules,” stated Mr. Julian Chamberlayne. “The Bianchi family is determined that their legal proceedings can provide answers and identify those responsible for the various failures.”

Beyond the accident, it is important to shed light on the many areas of uncertainty that still exist today, especially in the minds of racing drivers: « It is very important that current and future drivers have confidence in the safety of this sport. If safety had been ensured at Suzuka, Jules Bianchi would certainly still be alive and competing in the discipline he loved so much. »