Formula 1 drivers hold silence for Jules Bianchi

Jules Bianchi of France and Marussia walks across the paddock prior to the Chinese Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Shanghai International Circuit on April 20, 2014
© Getty Images
Formula 1 holds a minute's silence for injured Marussia driver Jules Bianchi ahead of the Russian Grand Prix.

The 21 Formula 1 drivers taking part in this afternoon's inaugural Russian Grand Prix have held a minute's silence for injured colleague Jules Bianchi.

The Marussia driver sustained a diffuse axonal injury after colliding with a recovery vehicle in last weekend's Japanese Grand Prix, leaving him in a critical condition.

Shortly before the start of the race in Sochi, all drivers, mechanics and F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone gathered at the front of the grid to pay respect to the Frenchman.

Marussia announced on Friday that they would run just one car this weekend.

Nico Rosberg of Germany and Mercedes GP celebrates after claiming pole position during qualifying ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps on August 23, 2014
Read Next:
Rosberg quickest in first practice
>
Related Video