An 18-year-old British GB3 racing driver has revealed a brain cancer diagnosis after noticing he was 'not feeling himself'.
Will MacIntyre, who competes in the GB3 Championship for Elite Motorsport, announced on social media that he has been diagnosed with both brain and lung cancer. MacIntyre is in his second season and has already impressed on track, winning at Silverstone earlier this year and recording podium finishes at Zandvoort and the Hungaroring.
GB3 has a reputation as a key stepping stone for young British drivers, with George Russell a winner in 2014, when the series was known as BRDC British F4.
Writing on Instagram, MacIntyre said: "Hi Everyone. This is a very different post to usual, but I’ll just spit it out.
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"Over the past few months, I haven’t quite felt myself and now it’s starting to make a bit more sense as to why.
"I’ve been diagnosed with both brain and lung cancer. Sadly, it’s as serious as it sounds! The amazing team at Milton Keynes Hospital have already been incredible in helping put a plan together for how I’m going to fight this."
Despite the devastating news, MacIntyre remained hopeful about returning to motor racing.
He said: "Unfortunately, this does mean I won’t be racing for the foreseeable future. But rest assured the second I’m able to, I’ll be back behind the wheel where I belong.
"A massive thank you goes to my family and friends for their support and to everyone who continues to back me through this unexpected detour. #illbeback."
Alongside his statement, MacIntyre posted a photo of himself in a hospital bed giving a thumbs up. Following the news, fans took to social media to send messages of encouragement to the rising star.
On Reddit, @Capital-Plane7509 wrote: "Only 18 years old! Hope he can beat it and get back to racing."
@micknick0000 added: "He's a talented young man. Praying for his recovery."
@Keanu990321 said: "Damn it! Really unfortunately at a tragically young age.
"Stay strong William!"
MacIntyre's team, Elite Motorsport, also released a statement expressing their support. The statement read: "It's important that we stand alongside Will Macintyre as he shares his journey.
"Over the past few months, Will hasn't quite felt himself and, following recent tests, he has now been diagnosed with both brain and lung cancer.
"Anyone who knows Will knows the strength and determination he carries both on and off the track. With the incredible support of the team at Milton Keynes Hospital, a treatment plan is already in place, and the fight is underway.
"For now, this does mean that Will will not be racing, but his passion for the sport remains undiminished. The moment he's able, he'll be back behind the wheel where he belongs.
"As a team, our priority is to support Will and his family through every step of this challenge.
"Will is, and always will be, a huge part of Elite Motorsport. Together, we'll face this detour head-on."
Topics: Formula 1, Motorsport
James Taylor