Alain Prost, the four-time Formula One World Champion, was hospitalised in the early hours of this morning after a masked gang raided his home in the South of France. The 69-year-old Frenchman, known as 'The Professor' for his analytical driving style, suffered minor injuries during the incident, which has sent ripples of shock through the UK motorsport community and beyond.
According to local authorities, a group of armed intruders forced entry into Prost's residence near Nice at around 2 a.m. local time. The assailants, wearing balaclavas and armed with handguns, subdued Prost and two other occupants before ransacking the property. Prost sustained a blow to the head but is reported to be in stable condition at a nearby hospital. The attackers escaped with valuable items, though the full extent of the theft remains unclear.
Prost, a dominant figure in 1980s and early 1990s F1, holds multiple records and is widely regarded as one of the sport's greatest drivers. His rivalry with Ayrton Senna defined an era, and his intellectual approach to racing made him a respected figure worldwide. In the UK, where motorsport enjoys a fervent following, the news has been met with disbelief. Former rivals and teams have expressed their support, with many taking to social media to condemn the violence.
The incident highlights a growing concern over the security of high-profile athletes, particularly those in luxury residences. While home invasions are not uncommon in the region, the targeted nature of the attack suggests the perpetrators were aware of Prost's status. French police have launched a manhunt, but no arrests have been made as of this report.
Prost's family has requested privacy, and his management team has issued a brief statement confirming the incident and his condition. The UK motorsport community, which includes a dedicated fan base and numerous British drivers who admired Prost, is collectively holding its breath. As investigations continue, the focus remains on Prost's recovery and the hope that justice will be swift.
This development comes at a sensitive time for the sport, with the F1 season underway and heightened security concerns following recent thefts involving other athletes. The solidarity shown by the British public underscores the deep connection between UK motorsport and its international heroes.
The French Interior Minister has pledged full support for the investigation, and extra patrols have been deployed in the area. For now, the world watches and waits, hoping for the speedy recovery of a true legend of the grid.
