Formula 1's long-serving and widely respected race director Charlie Whiting died suddenly in Melbourne Thursday, leaving a "huge void in the sport" just days before the opening Grand Prix of the season, AFP reported.

The 66-year-old Briton, who had been at the helm since 1997 and was in charge of everything rules-related in the highly technical sport, suffered a pulmonary embolism, or blood clot.

The F1 community has expressed their shock and sadness of Whiting's sudden passing by posting messages and tributes on social media.

"I'm incredibly shocked... he contributed so much to us"#AusGP ???? #F1 pic.twitter.com/icNOruHgze
— Formula 1 (@F1) March 14, 2019

Here's a list of those posts:

2016 F1 champion and former Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg:

Really sad to hear about the passing of Charlie Whiting. He cared so much for us drivers! For our safety and for trying to keep things fair out on track. My thoughts are especially you, Mrs. Whiting and your children.#ThankYouCharlie #CharlieWithing
— Nico Rosberg (@nico_rosberg) March 14, 2019

Former general manager of Ferrari and current President of the FIA Jean Todt:

It is with immense sadness that I learned of Charlie Whiting’s passing. He was a central & inimitable figure who embodied the ethics & spirit of motor sport. @F1 has lost a faithful friend & a charismatic ambassador. All my thoughts & those of @FIA go out to his family & friends pic.twitter.com/RhCR1M5rJL
— Jean Todt (@JeanTodt) March 14, 2019

F1's statement:

We are filled with immense shock and sadness at the news of Charlie Whiting's passing.

He will be remembered as a giant of the sport, as well as a dear friend to so many.

Our deepest sympathies and thoughts are with his friends and family.https://t.co/36pAcjjZOy
— Formula 1 (@F1) March 14, 2019

Former Benetton F1 driver:

We lost a great man today in Charlie Whiting. Respected throughout the motorsport world. pic.twitter.com/pt0206pZiX
— Johnny Herbert (@johnnyherbertf1) March 14, 2019

2009 F1 champion Jenson Button:

In utter shock to hear the news about Charlie’s passing. He always had the drivers safety and concerns in hand and didn’t worry about putting us in our place when we acted out of line.… https://t.co/ylYeR6Kdjp
— Jenson Button (@JensonButton) March 14, 2019

Scuderia Ferrari:

McLaren F1:

All at McLaren are shocked and deeply saddened at the news of Charlie Whiting's passing. Charlie will be remembered as one of the giants of our sport, as well as a great colleague. Our deepest sympathies and thoughts are with all of his loved ones. pic.twitter.com/DmrSZAT4Cc
— McLaren (@McLarenF1) March 14, 2019

Red Bull F1:

We are shocked and saddened to hear of Charlie Whiting’s passing and our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends and colleagues. pic.twitter.com/gRDunCfb72
— Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) March 14, 2019

Wheels24.co.za | F1 community pays respects to late race director Charlie Whiting

F1 community pays respects to late race director Charlie Whiting