Tragedy strikes as two riders lose their lives in a horrific crash during the British Supersport Championship.
Devastating Collision on First Lap
The opening round of the British Supersport Championship at Oulton Park turned into a tragedy on Monday after a catastrophic first-lap crash involving 11 riders. The race was swiftly red-flagged as emergency teams rushed to the scene.
The crash occurred moments after the pack exited turn one. A “major chain reaction” triggered a multi-bike pile-up that left two competitors fatally injured and several others requiring urgent medical attention.
Series director Stuart Higgs described the crash as “severe and catastrophic” before announcing the cancellation of the event.
Remembering Owen Jenner and Shane Richardson
Owen Jenner, 21, of Rapid Honda, and Shane Richardson, 29, from New Zealand, riding for Astro-JJR Hippo Suzuki, both lost their lives in the incident.
“Owen Jenner, 21, was initially treated trackside and then taken to the circuit medical centre, where, despite further resuscitation treatment, he died from a catastrophic head injury.
Shane Richardson, 29, was initially treated trackside and then taken to the circuit medical centre before being transferred to Royal Stoke University Hospital with severe chest injuries. He died prior to arrival,” MSVR confirmed in a statement.
The tragic loss has shaken the racing community, with both riders being well-regarded within the paddock.
One Rider Seriously Injured, Others Treated on Site
Tom Tunstall, 47, also sustained serious injuries in the crash. “Tom Tunstall, 47, was initially treated on the track and was taken to the circuit medical centre. He was later transferred to Royal Stoke University Hospital with significant back and abdominal injuries,” MSVR reported.
Other riders—Carl Harris, Max Morgan, Cameron Hall, Freddie Barnes, and Morgan McLaren-Wood—were treated at the circuit’s medical centre for minor injuries.
Lewis Jones, Corey Tinker, and George Edwards were also involved in the incident but were fortunate to escape without physical harm.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have begun an investigation into the incident. The Motorcycle Racing Control Board, MSVR, and Cheshire Constabulary are working alongside the Coroner to establish the full details.
A spokesperson for Cheshire Police said: “Police are investigating two deaths on behalf of the coroner following a multiple collision at Oulton Park this afternoon.”
The Oulton Park weekend was meant to launch the 2025 British Superbikes season, which includes seven more rounds across the country and three final ‘showdown’ events.
Despite a strong start with Bradley Ray winning race one on Sunday and Leon Haslam securing a sprint race win on Monday—his first since 2018—the weekend will now be remembered for its heartbreaking loss.
The British Supersport Championship serves as a support category to the main British Superbike series. Now, it faces a moment of reflection as the motorsport world mourns.
The motorsport community has been left reeling after the shocking events at Oulton Park. As investigations continue, thoughts remain with the families, teams, and fellow riders mourning the loss of Owen Jenner and Shane Richardson. This tragedy is a stark reminder of the risks involved in high-speed racing, where courage meets danger on every lap.
