Igor Mazepa has died aged 40

"It is with deep sadness that GP2 Series organisers confirm the untimely passing of RUSSIAN TIME's Team Principal Igor Mazepa earlier this week," the statement read.

"Mazepa who joined the GP2 paddock in 2013 led the Russian's squad to the crown in their first year. His passion, kindness and enthusiasm will be truly missed.

"GP2 organisers send their thoughts and condolences to his family and loved ones."

Born in 1973, Mazepa entered GP2 with his team last year, winning the Teams' Championship in their maiden season and narrowly missing out on the drivers' crown with Sam Bird.

The team will expand into GP3 in 2014.

Bird and 2013 team-mate Tom Dillmann took to Twitter to express their condolences.

"Goodbye my friend, you will be missed," Bird tweeted. "My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of my team boss Igor. He gave me a chance and I'll never forget our season together."

Dillmann added: "I'm absolutely shocked. We will all miss is enthusiasm. Thank you for everything, you can be proud. RIP Igor Mazepa."

Goodbye my friend, you will be missed. - sam bird (@sambirdracing) February 5, 2014

My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of my team boss Igor. He gave me a chance and I'll never forget our season together - sam bird (@sambirdracing) February 5, 2014

I'm absolutely shocked. We will all miss is enthusiasm. Thank you for everything, you can be proud. RIP Igor Mazepa pic.twitter.com/Z9Z72RZM7Q - Tom Dillmann (@TomDillmann) February 5, 2014

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Russian Time team, and the family & friends of Mr Mazepa #RIP - ART Grand Prix (@ARTGP) February 5, 2014

His first reverse pole pic.twitter.com/SL503O7qAf - Alexa Quintin (@Candy_Rocket) February 5, 2014

Sending our sincere condolences to @RTGP2official and the family and friends of Igor Mazepa. A great competitor who will be missed. - Carlin (@CarlinRacing) February 5, 2014

Our thoughts are with Igor Mazepa's family, friends and the entire Russian Time team. - Racing Engineering (@REOfficial) February 5, 2014

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Russian Time team, and the family of Mr Mazepa. - Lazarus (@teamlazarus) February 5, 2014