The motorsport world is mourning the loss of Owen Jenner (21) and Shane Richardson (29), who tragically lost their lives in a catastrophic 11-bike crash during the British Supersport Championship race at Oulton Park. The incident, which unfolded at turn one, Old Hall corner, on the first lap, sent shockwaves through the racing community.
The crash occurred as riders exited the first corner, triggering a chain reaction that led to multiple bikes going down. Jenner, a rising star from Crowborough, East Sussex, suffered a catastrophic head injury and was treated trackside before being taken to the circuit’s medical center, where he succumbed to his injuries. Richardson, originally from New Zealand, sustained severe chest injuries and was rushed to Royal Stoke University Hospital, but tragically, he did not survive the journey.
A third rider, Tom Tunstall (47), remains hospitalized with significant back and abdominal injuries. Five other competitors were treated at the track’s medical center for minor injuries: Carl Harris, Max Morgan, Cameron Hall, Freddie Barnes, and Morgan McLaren-Wood. Three additional riders, Lewis Jones, Corey Tinker, and George Edwards—were involved in the crash but escaped unscathed.
Cheshire Police issued an official statement regarding the accident, saying: “Police are investigating two deaths on behalf of the coroner following a multiple collision at Oulton Park this afternoon. Emergency services were called to the scene following the collision, which resulted in two riders being fatally injured and another with serious injuries. Due to the severity of the incident and ongoing medical intervention, the remainder of the event was cancelled. The Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board and MotorSport Vision Racing are investigating the full circumstances of the incident in conjunction with the Coroner and Cheshire Police.”
Following the severity of the accident, the remainder of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship event was canceled. MotorSport Vision Racing, which oversees the race series, released a statement expressing deep sorrow: “This catastrophic accident has tragically resulted in two riders being fatally injured, and another sustaining significant injuries. The Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board and MotorSport Vision Racing are investigating the full circumstances of the incident in conjunction with the Coroner and Cheshire Constabulary.”
Both Jenner and Richardson had expressed excitement for the race weekend on social media just days before the tragedy. Jenner, a Superstock champion in 2020 and 2023, had recently signed with Rapid Honda after dominating the GP2 championship in 2024. Richardson, a father-of-two, had transitioned from running a bespoke kitchen business to competing on the UK’s premier racing circuits.
This tragic accident is expected to prompt serious reviews of motorsport safety regulations, particularly in British Supersport and other high-speed motorcycle racing events. Historically, fatal accidents have led to enhanced safety measures, and this crash could result in stricter track safety standards, improved rider protection, revised race start procedures, enhanced medical response protocols, and stronger crash investigation measures. Authorities may reassess corner designs, runoff areas, and barriers to reduce the risk of multi-bike pile-ups. Mandatory upgrades to helmets, airbag suits, and other protective gear could be implemented to minimize fatal injuries. Officials might adjust grid formations or introduce staggered starts to prevent first-lap congestion. Faster trackside medical intervention and specialized trauma teams may be introduced. Motorsport governing bodies may introduce new accident analysis protocols to identify risks and prevent future incidents.
Following the crash, MotorSport Vision Racing and the Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board have already launched an investigation alongside Cheshire Police and the Coroner. If findings indicate systemic safety failures, new regulations could be introduced before the next race season.
The racing community has been left reeling from the loss of two talented riders. Tributes have poured in from fellow racers, fans, and teams, honoring their passion and dedication to the sport. As investigations continue, the motorsport world stands united in grief, remembering Owen Jenner and Shane Richardson, two riders who lived for the thrill of the race.
