Tragedies of Formula One

The last two weeks have been tough times in the world of motorsport. First the tragic death of Formula 2 driver Henry Surtees and then the 'freak' accident involving Felipe Massa. All said and done it is pretty easy to say that is has been one of the worst years in motorsport. Henry Surtees, son of Former Formula One champion, John Surtees was killed at Brands Hatch last Sunday when he was struck on the head by a wheel and tyre of Jack Clark.

This tragedy shook the racing world as safety in motorsports was being questioned again. At the Hungarian Grand Prix qualifying Ferrari's Felipe Massa was hit by a spring from the damper of Rubens Barrichello's Brawn. Both drivers were unconscious and went straight into the barriers ahead. While Surtees was unlucky, Massa is slowly recovering from his crash, not knowing if he will ever race again.

We have all taken safety in racing for granted, as it has been ages since there has been a serious crash. What people have to remember is that motorsports has always been dangerous and will continue to be. Yes these are freak accidents but when you are driving at 200mph the word 'freak' gets taken out. Accidents are inevitable and drivers know that more than anyone else. After Senna's death desperate measures were taken and seem to have paid off, that is until now.

Let us hope that Massa is back next year on the grid in Melbourne and we will all pray to ensure that happens!!