Alexander Rossi Says That Suzuka Circuit Remains On Top Of His Mind In The Wake Of Jules Bianchi’s Catastrophic Accident

American racing driver Alexander Rossi has looked back at the key moments of his 2014 season in a statement that he shared on his official website. Rossi retraced his thoughts to the moment at which Frenchman Jules Bianchi suffered a catastrophic accident at the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix in the Suzuka Circuit.

Two months after the tragedy, Rossi said that Suzuka has remained at the forefront of his mind. He added that the accident has broadened his perspective and narrowed his focus as far as his personal pursuit and ambitions to race in Formula One, or F1, are concerned.

"Jules Bianchi is my friend, competitor, and for a special time, he was my teammate," Rossi wrote. "I think of him and his family each day and will continue to keep them in my thoughts and prayers."

Rossi is the only American in F1. He also made history when he became the youngest driver at 18 years old to hold an F1 Super License.

Rossi joined Marussia F1 as the team's reserve driver in July. With his stint in Marussia, Rossi is expected to be in attendance to all the FIA F1 World Championship Grand Prix. His goal for the 2015 season is to secure a full-time F1 race seat.

Rossi was slated to make his F1 debut in August at the Belgian Grand Prix replacing British Driver Max Chilton, but it didn't push through. At the Russian Grand Prix that took place on Oct. 12, Rossi was lined up to replace Bianchi to represent Marussia, but the American ended up running only one car out of respect for the injured Frenchman.

Regarding Bianchi's latest health condition, the family hasn't released any update since the statement that was released on Bianchi's Facebook page. The statement said that Bianchi is no longer in a coma. He remains unconscious but he is also able to breathe on his own. Bianchi's vital signs are also reportedly stable. However, his condition is still deemed critical. Bianchi is currently in his native France to continue his recuperation from the tragic accident at Suzuka Circuit in the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix.

To reach the author of this article, email r.corpuz@ibtimes.com.au.