Two riders have died and six others were injured in a catastrophic crash during the Quattro Group British Supersport Championship at Oulton Park on Monday, marking one of the darkest days in recent British motorsport history.
The fatal incident occurred on the first lap of the race at Old Hall Corner, where a chain-reaction crash resulted in 11 riders coming off their bikes. The race was immediately red-flagged, and medical teams were deployed trackside.
Owen Jenner, 21, of Rapid Honda, and Shane Richardson, 29, of Astro-JJR Hippo Suzuki, both sustained fatal injuries. Jenner died at the circuit medical centre from a catastrophic head injury. Richardson, a New Zealander, died en route to Royal Stoke University Hospital after suffering severe chest trauma.
Tom Tunstall, a 47-year-old rider with SRG Specialist Risk Group Ducati, was also seriously injured. He was transferred to Royal Stoke University Hospital with significant back and abdominal injuries.
Five additional riders were treated at the track for minor injuries: Carl Harris (#9), Max Morgan (#39), Cameron Hall (#48), Freddie Barnes (#78), and Morgan McLaren-Wood (#95). Three more riders—Lewis Jones (#25), Corey Tinker (#37), and George Edwards (#90)—escaped without injury.
MotorSport Vision Racing (MSVR), organisers of the event, confirmed the cancellation of the remainder of the British Superbikes opening weekend due to the severity of the incident.
An MSVR spokesperson said:
“This catastrophic accident has tragically resulted in two riders being fatally injured and another sustaining significant injuries. We are working closely with the Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board, the Coroner, and Cheshire Constabulary to fully investigate the circumstances.”
Cheshire Police have launched a formal investigation on behalf of the coroner. A spokesperson said:
“Emergency services were called to the scene following the collision which resulted in two riders being fatally injured and another with serious injuries. The full circumstances are now under investigation.”
Background and Motorsport Community Reaction
The Quattro Group British Supersport Championship is a key support series for the British Superbike Championship (BSB). Richardson finished 8th in the 2023 standings and Jenner, regarded as a rising star, was entering his second full season in the category.
Tributes from across the racing community have poured in, with fellow riders, teams and fans expressing shock and sorrow over the tragic events. Safety protocols and race management procedures are expected to face renewed scrutiny in the aftermath of the crash.
For further updates on this developing story and information on British Superbike Championship safety protocols, visit the official BSB website or follow announcements from MotorSport Vision Racing.
