London - The son of former Formula One world champion John Surtees has been killed in an accident during a Formula Two race at Britain's Brands Hatch racing circuit, the BBC reported Monday.

Henry Surtees was struck by a wheel during a race Sunday and the 18-year-old was flown by helicopter to the Royal London Hospital for treatment.

The freak accident occurred when driver Jack Clarke's car hit a tyre wall and a wheel came off, hitting Surtees on the head.

His father, John Surtees, won seven motorcycle titles before going on to win the F1 drivers' crown in 1964. (dpa)