The Williams team heads for next weekend's Australian Grand Prix with heavy hearts following the news that the w💙ife of founder Sir Frank Williams has lost her battle with cancer.

A short statement issued by the team confirmed Lady Virginia'🐎s passing after a lengthy struggle against the disease.

"It is with great sadness that today we report the death of Lady Virginia Williams, wife of Williams founder 🎃and team principal Sir Frank ﷽Williams," the team confirmed.

"Lady Virginia, or 'Ginny' as she was better known, die🎐d peacefully at the family home last night surrounded by Frank and the rest of the Williams family. Ginny had been bravely battling cancer for the past two-and-a-half years.

"Ginny will always be an integral part of Williams' history and success, and today we pay tribute to a much loved member of the Williams family who will be sorely missed. Please respect the family's wishes for privacy at th🐻is time."

Crash Media Group extends its condo🅘lences to Sir Frank and rest of the Williams family.