Bianchi remains in 'critical but stable condition'

SUZUKA, Japan — Formula One team Marussia has hit back at claims it contributed to Jules Bianchi's life-threatening crash at the Japanese Grand Prix by urging him to ignore yellow warning flags.

Marussia refuted news reports that Bianchi had been told to ignore the yellow flags and keep racing at full pace in the wet and dim conditions at the race earlier this month.

The team issued a statement Wednesday saying the reports contained "deeply upsetting rumors and inaccuracies."

The French driver lost control of his car and went off the circuit, hitting a mobile crane that was out near the track to collect another car.

Bianchi remains in a hospital in a critical condition with severe head injuries.