The Grand Prix Drivers' Association has confirmed that the F1 grid will hold a minute of silence in memory of Maria de Villota ahead of the🧔 Japane൲se Grand Prix.

The Spaniard, who was a Marussia test driver in 2012, died in her sleep at the start of th💦e weekend, the result of neurological injuries incurred in a crash she suffered while making her debut with the team at RAF Duxford last year.

de Villota's death rocked the F1 paddock at Suzuka, and th൲e GPDA confirmed that the winner's podium would also be dedicated to her memory.

"Her positive attitude, maturity and extreme commitment will never be forgotten and are something we have learned from," a statement from the drivers' organ⭕isation said, "Maria will be𝔍 missed and always remembered by all of us."