The Formula One community has paid tribute to loveable superfan Charaf-Eddin Ait-Tales who lost his battle with cancer last weekend.
The partially-blind Frenchman was a regular fixture on the F1 circuit for more than a decade and was loved by drivers for his unwavering positive attitude.
Australian F1 star Daniel Ricciardo was among the sport's biggest names to lead tributes for Charaf, Tweeting: "Charaf sadly passed on the weekend. Loved when he was at the track, laughing and joking about something, mainly my terrible French. I'll remember him for just getting on with it with a smile regardless of the cards he was dealt through his life. Thank you for being a bright light."
https://twitter.com/danielricciardo/status/1372564354982379525
Ferrari superstar Charles Leclerc wrote: "Charaf was such an amazing person. You always had a huge smile on your face every time we spoke together. Always so positive and always using the right words whenever I was feeling down. I'll miss you, and the whole paddock will miss you. Rest In Peace my friend."
https://twitter.com/Charles_Leclerc/status/1372283598225686531
Former drivers Romain Grosjean and Nico Rosberg also offered their condolences.
"Very sad news. Charaf was a true F1 lover with a unique feeling for it. Always smiling and friendly. The paddock will miss him," Grosjean wrote.
Rosberg added: "I'm so sorry to read this. My deepest condolences to the entire family. Charaf was such a special person always putting a smile on everyone's face. We will miss you – Rest in Peace my friend!"
Charaf was clearly held dear by many figures in the sport, not just drivers, with F1 presenter Will Buxton shattered over the news.
"I'm utterly cut up and so desperately sad to hear the news of the passing of our dear sweet, passionate, wonderful friend Charaf," he tweeted.
"One of life's truly genuine people and the most beautiful soul. Everyone loved him. I'll miss him awfully."
https://twitter.com/wbuxtonofficial/status/1372276316247093251
Charaf was a Michael Schumacher fanatic and began losing his sight when the seven-time world champion broke his leg in a crash at Silverstone in 1999.
Charaf's death was announced by his brother on Thursday. "It's with my deepest sorrow that I have to inform you of the death of my beloved brother Charaf," a statement read.
"As you may know, he was fighting against a cancer. He passed away surrounded by loved ones. Thank you to all ppl who showed support and love to him during his last fight."
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