Motorsport rocked by death of NASCAR driver Federico Gutierrez, 17, in horrific car crash
A rising star in NASCAR racing has been killed in a car accident at the age of 17.
Teenage prodigy Federico Gutierrez and his older brother Max, who is also a driver, were both involved in a shocking accident outside of competition in Mexico on Sunday.
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Federico, affectionately known as Fico, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Max, 20, was airlifted to hospital in Mexico City with non-life-threatening injuries.
After being a star in the Mexican Truck Series, Fico won the 2022 NASCAR Mexico Challenge Series Rookie of the Year.
Max, like his brother Fico, also raced in the United States, but mainly competes in the first Mexican NASCAR series.
NASCAR sent its condolences to the Gutiérrez family in a public tribute.
“We are devastated by the loss of our friend and driver Federico Gutierrez Hoppe,” NASCAR wrote.
Federico Gutierrez died at the age of 17. Credit: Twitter
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Gutierrez family during this difficult time.”
AM Racing, the Truck Series team Max raced for, also released a statement following the devastating news.
“AM Racing sends its deepest condolences to the Gutierrez family for the loss of their son, Federico,” AM Racing wrote.
“Fico was an extended member of the AM Racing family, often joining his brother Max on track last season and we will forever cherish those memories.
“Our thoughts and prayers are not only with the family, but also with Max during his recovery and his grieving process.”
NASCAR reporter Chris Knight shared his experience with Fico.
“I met Fico Gutierrez in 2021 and he was so grateful to have the opportunity to race in the States,” Knight wrote.
“His big smile and polite demeanor will be my fondest memory of him.
“I keep the family and especially Max in my thoughts and prayers. TEAR.”
Fico and his brother Max were involved in the horrific accident. Credit: Twitter
NASCAR driver and friend of brothers Max and Fico, Noah Gragson shared Rette Jones Racing’s statement on the driver, with his own message attached.
“Heartbroken to hear the news of Fico and Max. Became great friends with them. Thinking of the Gutierrez family and Max with his recovery,” Gragon wrote.
“Rette Jones Racing offers its deepest condolences to the Gutierrez family on the loss of their son, Federico,” Rette Jones Racing wrote. “Fico was not only a fierce competitor, but also a friend and forever a member of our racing family. He will be greatly missed.
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with the family, but also with Max during his recovery and grieving process.”
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