Two motorsport drivers die in fatal crashes at UK racing events as police issue statements | Other | Sport![]() The motorsport community is in mourning following the tragic deaths of two drivers, Julian Grimwade and Dai Roberts, in separate incidents on Saturday. During a Vintage Sports Car Club (VSCC) event at Donnington Park in Leicestershire, Grimwade was involved in a fatal crash. A police spokesperson confirmed: "Police were notified of a single vehicle collision at a licensed track day at Donington Park yesterday (24 May). "The driver of the vehicle – a man in his 70s – was taken to hospital where he was later pronounced deceased. Enquiries are continuing on behalf of HM Coroner. Identification of the deceased is a matter for the coroner." In a statement, Motorsport UK expressed their sadness, saying: "It is with great sadness that Motorsport UK confirms the passing of Julian Grimwade, who was competing at the Vintage Sports Car Club's race event at Donington Park today. "Motorsport UK joins the entire UK motorsport community in mourning and sends its sincerest condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Julian, as well as the Vintage Sports Car Club." "As with all serious incidents, Motorsport UK will conduct an investigation into the matter and cooperate with the relevant external authorities." Meanwhile, another incident at the Jim Clark Rally claimed the life of driver Dai Roberts. Tragedy struck the Scottish Borders on Saturday morning when co-driver Dai Roberts, 39, was declared dead at the scene near Duns, following a harrowing incident on the D41/6 Edrom Mains road. His partner, 27-year-old James Williams, was rushed to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh with serious injuries that were thankfully not life-threatening. Police Scotland's Superintendent Vincent Fisher expressed his condolences, stating: "Our thoughts are with the family of the man who has died and inquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances." Motorsport UK released a heartfelt statement confirming the devastating news: "Motorsport UK is deeply saddened to announce that co-driver Dai Roberts lost his life in an incident at the Jim Clark Rally on Saturday 24 May 2025. Driver James Williams was taken by ambulance to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh with serious but not life-threatening injuries." "Motorsport UK sends its condolences to Dai's family and friends, the Jim Clark Rally, Jim Clark Memorial Motor Club and members of the motorsport community. Motorsport UK has initiated a full investigation into the circumstances of the incident and will work closely with the Jim Clark Rally event organisers and Jim Clark Memorial Motor Club and will cooperate with the relevant authorities." The Jim Clark Rally, an annual event held on closed roads in the Scottish Borders, honours the legacy of the two-time Formula One champion Jim Clark. The Fedeeration Internationale de l'Automobile, the international motorsport governing body, has issued a heartfelt statement following a tragic incident at the Nykobing Falster Motor Sport's Anniversary Rally in Denmark on Saturday. "We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of those who have sadly lost their lives," they declared. "Our thoughts are also with those injured in the accidents and we send our best wishes to them for their full and swift recovery. "The tragic incidents today have united our global motor sport community as we reaffirm the FIA's full support to our members, officials and competitors." Source link Posted: 2025-05-25 13:58:56 |
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