Justin Wilson death: Lewis Hamilton pays tribute after death of IndyCar driver

Hamilton hailed the driver as motor racing's 'ultimate gentleman'

Justin Wilson died on Monday of head injuries sustained in an IndyCar crash on Sunday (AP)

Lewis Hamilton led the tributes for Justin Wilson on Tuesday, hailing the driver as motor racing’s “ultimate gentleman” following his death on Monday night.

Wilson, the 37-year-old former Formula One driver, succumbed to the head injuries he sustained in an IndyCar race at Pocono Raceway in Pennsylvania on Sunday.

With 21 laps of the ABC Supply 500 remaining, Wilson was struck on the helmet by debris after American rookie Sage Karam slammed into the concrete wall at the oval track.

“I woke up this morning feeling positive in my heart until I read the news,” said Hamilton. “I am so devastated to hear of another passing of a great man and driver. I’d met Justin Wilson a few times growing up and he was the ultimate gentleman.

“Whilst I only knew him a little, I will miss him. We will miss him. May God rest his soul and keep his hands over his family. My thoughts are with the Wilson family,” Hamilton added.

Wilson competed in 11 races in Formula One for Minardi in 2003 before taking part in the final five grands prix of the campaign for Jaguar. The flags at Red Bull Racing – the team which emerged to succeed Jaguar in 2005 – flew at half-mast on Tuesday in honour of the Englishman.

Jenson Button, who competed against Wilson in Formula One as well as in motor racing’s junior categories, joined Hamilton in paying tribute to his compatriot.

“I raced with Justin as far back as 1989 in karting and remember his smile was infectious, such a lovely guy,” Button said. “My thoughts are with his family. RIP, Justin.”