Jules’ father took to social media to issue an appeal after reporting the theft of several go-karts belonging to the JB17 Forever foundation, urging anyone who may come across them to notify him.

“Dear friends, I am addressing tonight to my karting family. Tonight we were robbed, and the thieves, without scruples, made off with 9 chassis JB17 Forever.” he wrote via his Facebook page.

Bianchi also revealed that his son’s final kart before stepping up to single-seaters — a KZ 125 ART GP model with immense sentimental value — was among the items stolen.

In the aftermath of his son’s tragic passing following the severe injuries sustained in the Japanese Grand Prix accident, Philippe Bianchi chose to turn grief into action by creating the Association Jules Bianchi.

Set up in Jules’ memory, the organisation aims to give young drivers a chance in motorsport, particularly those held back by financial constraints. Through initiatives in karting and the junior categories, the foundation helps promising talents develop their careers while promoting the principles that defined Jules both on and off the track.

Its mission, however, goes well beyond racing. The association also works closely with the specialist unit for serious head trauma at L’Archet Hospital in Nice — the same hospital where Jules was cared for — offering practical support, equipment and comfort to patients and families facing life-changing injuries similar to those he endured.