Jules Bianchi father delivers 'immense joy' update following recent cruel theft

The father of Jules Bianchi has expressed his "immense joy" and "enormous relief" following the recovery of a kart of significant sentimental value after its theft last week.

Philippe Bianchi was left heartbroken following the robbery in which nine karts, with the JB17 chassis, were stolen, including the last raced by his son before his step up to single-seaters en route to Formula 1.

Bianchi revealed the theft via a post on social media, urging his "karting family" to remain vigilant to the potential sale of any of the karts. In addition, several of his grandsons' mini-karts were also stolen.

"Apart from the value of the machines, it is the sentimental value that hurts us," wrote Bianchi. Almost a week later, he has now issued an update.

Again taking to social media, Bianchi wrote: "It is with immense joy that I can confirm that Jules’ kart has been found - an enormous relief for our entire family.

"A huge thank you to everyone who shared the information on social media, to the media who helped spread the word, and to the Brignoles gendarmerie for their action.

"Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who made this possible. There are still a few karts and a mini bike left to be found, but thanks to all of you, I have renewed hope. Forever Jules."

Jules Bianchi made his F1 debut in 2013 with Marussia and scored the team's first points at the 2014 Monaco Grand Prix.

As a Ferrari junior driver, Bianchi was tipped for a future position with the Italian team before his life was tragically cut short.

Bianchi suffered significant injuries at the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix in treacherous conditions and died nine months later.

Over 11 years after his passing, Bianchi is still fondly remembered by the F1 and wider racing community.