Jules Bianchi's death shows danger still present in F1 - Hamilton

After a nine-month fight for survival following a horrific crash in the Japanese Grand Prix, Bianchi passed away on Friday, becoming the first driver since Ayrton Senna in 1994 to die from injuries sustained during a race.

The Frenchman's funeral on Tuesday at the Cathedral Sainte Reparate in his home city of Nice was attended by , past and present, including reigning world champion Hamilton.

Although the 30-year-old appreciates enormous strides have been taken over the years between the deaths of Senna and Bianchi, it has highlighted to him that more can still be done.

Hamilton said: "Saying goodbye to Jules was incredibly hard for everyone. For myself, I wished I had known him better.

"But from what I knew of him, he was a kind heart with a great spirit and a bright future. Now our sport embarks on a tough road ahead.

"We have been shown once more the dangers of our sport, that these should be respected and that we drivers commit ourselves to the chance that those dangers are there when we step into the car.

"We have made great progress for safety thus far, and I know the FIA will continue to make steps forward to improve even further."

Ahead of what is expected to be a sombre few days in Budapest with this weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix, Hamilton added: "I will be carrying Jules with me in my prayers and thoughts, not only this race but for the rest of my driving days.

"I know he'd want us to race hard as he did, and so I will."

WOLFF: SAFETY WORK TO HONOUR BIANCHI

Like Hamilton, Mercedes motorsport boss Toto Wolff knows no stone can be left unturned when it comes to making further strides with regard to safety.

"It has been a difficult week for the motorsport family," said Wolff.

"My first thoughts go to the family and friends of Jules - the loss of a child is something for which there are no words, and on behalf of the team I send them strength for the days and weeks ahead.

"I personally remember the first time I heard of an incredibly talented young French guy with an Italian name back in 2007, how he performed in his F3 rookie season in 2008, then dominated the following year to become champion.

"That is how we will remember Jules - as an extraordinary champion.

"And we will honour his memory by continuing to improve the safety of the drivers, team members, circuit workers and spectators under the leadership of the FIA."