The 26-year-old world champion, who is preparing for Sunday’s Monaco Grand Prix, is now in his eighth season on the grid.

Russell was the pre-season championship favourite but fellow Mercedes driver Antonelli has won three straight races.

He was remembered as “a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather” and “an incredible brother” by his family.

Norris became the 11th British driver to take the F1 crown last year.

Max Verstappen claimed victory ahead of McLaren driver Norris after a safety car was brought out at the Canadian Grand Prix

Senator David Norris used his final speech in the Seanad to call for peace in Palestine