Jaime Alguersuari has paid tribute to Toro Rosso physio Raniero Gianotti, who has died at the age of 46.
Alguersuari said that the Italian was “the person who I have loved and who has loved me the most in Formula One.”
Gianotti, who also worked with drivers such as Rubens Barrichello and Jarno Trulli in the past, suffered a heart attack while cycling.
“For me, he was more than a friend, he was a brother,” said Alguersuari. “I debuted in F1 with just 19 years old and I had never done a full lap in an F1 in any circuit. Raniero was my guide and comfort in my troubles. In these three years we have lived together in the most diverse countries in the world, in his house in Urbino and at my family’s house in Barcelona.
“He was the best professional I’ve known both in the physical preparation applied to F1 as in knowledge of the paddock. A few days ago he called to tell me, ‘Don’t worry about your future, Jaime, because you are the future.’ I will never forget him, and I can only say ‘Ever onward to victory, Raniero.’ We will continue to fight against adversity.”
Adam Cooper F1 
Such a desperately sad and heartfelt statement. A man who clearly did a lot to help a young driver and many others, he will be missed.
To hear Jaime’s words, it’s hard to believe he’s only 21 years old. His maturity and eloquence should be an inspiration to us all.