British motorbike racer is second to die in qualifying for Manx Grand Prix
The qualifying deaths of Sam Naughton and Mauro Poncini prompted schedule changes, and officials said 272 riders or sidecar competitors have died there since 1911.
- Two motorcycle riders have died during qualifying sessions for the Manx Grand Prix this week. Swiss competitor Mauro Poncini and local racer Sam Naughton were killed in separate crashes on the 37.7-mile Mountain Course.
- On Tuesday, 29-year-old Poncini died following an incident at Cruickshanks during the second qualifying session. A second unnamed competitor involved in the same crash sustained minor injuries and was transported to the hospital.
- Sam Naughton, 37, died on Wednesday after crashing at Doran's Bend on the western section of the course. The Castletown resident was competing in the event for the second time since his debut.
- Manx Grand Prix Races expressed sorrow, stating, "The Manx Grand Prix Races pass on their deepest sympathy." The organization extended condolences to his wife Charlotte, children, and family, and qualifying is scheduled to continue Thursday afternoon.
- Despite improved safety measures, these fatalities mark the 272nd recorded competitor death at the event since 1911. While no riders died at last year's event, the races remain among the world's deadliest motorcycle competitions.
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52 Articles
Qualifying for the historic Grand Prix on the Isle of Man was overshadowed by two tragic accidents that killed Swiss driver Mauro Poncini and 37-year-old Isle of Man local Sam Naughton.
Two drivers die in Isle of Man Grand Prix qualifyingMauro Poncini and Sam Naughton have died in qualifying crashes. Organisers have said the race will go ahead and finish on 28 August.
Sam Naughton, 37 Dies In A Motorcycle Crash, What Happened At His Last Grand Prix Qualifying Race?
The competitive bike racing community is currently in a period of mourning as young racers have lost their lives prematurely. British motorcyclist Sam Naughton passed away on August 19, 2026, following a fatal crash. He was just 37 years old at the time of his death. Notably, his demise came just a day after Swiss rider Mauro Poncini was killed in a separate qualifying crash at Cruickshank's in Ramsey. The back-to-back deaths of young talents ha…
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