Two Spanish motorcyclists dead in racing accident

Bernat Martinez

Monterey (California), July 20 (IANS)

Two Spanish motorbike riders – Bernat Martinez and Daniel Rivas – have died due to injuries sustained in an accident at World Superbike Championship at Laguna Seca circuit here.

The pair met with the tragedy in a multiple pile-up at the first lap of the race on Sunday but the 35-year-old Martinez and 27-year-old Rivas were rushed to a hospital where they were pronounced dead.

MotoAmeria president Wayne Rainey expressed his condolences, saying the loss of his “family members” saddened him deeply.

“I really don't have any words to describe what we all feel. First and foremost, is the loss to the families and loved ones. Our sincere condolences go out to each and every one of them as well as the MotoAmerica family,” he said in a statement on Sunday night.

Moto Grand Prix world champion Marc Marquez also tweeted his sadness, saying, “very sad news, which has come from the USA,” offering his condolences and support to the victims and their families.

The Central Sports Committee and the Royal Motorcycle Federation of Spain have also published messages of condolence.

Formula One driver Jules Bianchi recently died of crash injuries following his accident in the Japanese Grand Prix in October last year.