The racing fraternity is mourning the death of Jeff Green, the former Pro Mazda Championship presented by Cooper Tires driver who died Saturday from injuries sustained in a vintage racing crash at Canadian Tire Motorsports Park in Bowmanville, Ontario.

The tragedy was especially difficult for those at Juncos Racing, the team that the 61-year-old Green drove for last season in Pro Mazda.

“We are deeply saddened with the news of the passing of Jeff Green,” team owner Ricardo Juncos said in a released statement. “Jeff was an outstanding man. He was very dedicated to his family and to his racing career. He was a true joy to be around, especially at the track.

“He supported this team so much in numerous ways and we cannot thank him enough. We will be forever grateful for our time with Jeff. His family will always be a part of the Juncos Racing family. Our thoughts and prayers go to his wife Pam, children, family and friends during this very difficult time.”

Victor Franzoni was Green’s Pro Mazda teammate last season at Juncos and credits the Illinois native for keeping his career going. With Green’s support, Franzoni won the Pro Mazda championship to earn the $1 million Mazda scholarship to compete this season in Indy Lights presented by Cooper Tires, the top level of the Mazda Road to Indy development ladder.

“I am completely heartbroken,” Franzoni said. “Jeff is a big reason why I am now in the Indy Lights series. He kept my dream going by being my teammate last year in Pro Mazda. He is the most amazing teammate I have ever had in my life and through that we became great friends. I learned a lot from Jeff, he was always teaching me and helping me in any way he could. There are no words to describe this loss.”

Funeral arrangements are pending.