Will Buxton Instagram – Back in 2013 I was trying to get a charity event in Austin off the ground, and Gil said he’d pop by for a few minutes if he could. In the end his flight was delayed and so I assumed that was that. But I’d not accounted for the fact that this was Gil. He came anyway, straight from the airport, pulling his suitcase behind him as he arrived at the bar and already had a beer in his hand by the time he reached the stage, a gift from a fan who couldn’t believe he was there. His stories had the room in awe and in hysterics. Almost all unprintable. Very few repeatable. The roar when the night ended, the love for Gil, almost blew the windows out. That was Gil. His word was his bond. He was loyal, genuine, kept his promises and made the effort for his friends. He made time for his fans. I last saw him a few weeks ago in an airport lounge en route to one of the last Grands Prix of the season. We spoke about our kids and our families, sharing photos and sharing joy. We talked about our jobs, this crazy life. He was in a great place. So happy. So excited. So many plans. We agreed to get a meal together in the new year at the first opportunity we got. I can’t believe he’s gone. Gil de Ferran was a sensational racing driver. One of the best you’ll ever have seen. But beyond everything, he was a wonderful man. I loved him. And I’ll miss him terribly. 📸 @f1photographer & @jameypricephoto