In a tragic turn of events at the British Supersport Championship held at Oulton Park, two riders lost their lives following a catastrophic crash involving 11 motorcycles during the opening lap of the race on Monday, May 5, 2025. The victims, 21-year-old Owen Jenner from Crowborough, England, and 29-year-old Shane Richardson from Wainuiomata, New Zealand, succumbed to their injuries after a devastating series of collisions that left the motorsport community in shock.
The incident unfolded at the notorious first corner, known as Old Hall, where a chain reaction crash occurred as riders exited the turn. The race was immediately red-flagged, and medical teams rushed to the scene, but their efforts were tragically insufficient to save Jenner and Richardson. According to a joint statement from MotorSport Vision Racing (MSVR) and the Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board, "Due to the extreme severity of the incident and ongoing medical intervention, the remainder of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship event was cancelled."
Jenner was treated trackside before being moved to the circuit's medical centre, where he died from a catastrophic head injury despite further resuscitation efforts. Richardson, initially treated at the same location, was later transferred to Royal Stoke University Hospital with severe chest injuries but unfortunately died prior to arrival.
The crash also left Tom Tunstall, a 47-year-old rider, with significant back and abdominal injuries, and he remains hospitalized. Five other riders, including Carl Harris, Max Morgan, Cameron Hall, Freddie Barnes, and Morgan McLaren-Wood, sustained minor injuries but did not require hospitalization. Meanwhile, Lewis Jones, Corey Tinker, and George Edwards escaped uninjured.
The aftermath of the crash has prompted an investigation by Cheshire Constabulary, which is working alongside the Coroner and racing authorities to uncover the full circumstances surrounding this tragic event. The investigation aims to ensure that such a catastrophic accident does not occur again.
Richardson was a well-respected competitor in the racing community, having moved to the UK in 2019 to pursue his passion for motorsport. He was known for his competitive spirit and camaraderie among fellow riders. Tributes have poured in from across the motorsport world, with many expressing their sorrow over the loss of two talented individuals.
New Zealand Moto3 rider Cormac Buchanan reflected on Richardson's impact, stating, "Shane was truly one of the best people I ever had the privilege of sharing the track with, not only a super talented rider but a down to earth person away from it." He continued, "To Hannah, Max, and Maddie I send you all of my love, support, and condolences. I am always riding with you, thank you for everything Shane."
Jenner's death is particularly poignant as it occurred on his father's birthday, a day he had celebrated on social media just hours before the race. In a heartfelt post, he had written, "Happy birthday to the old boy. Wouldn’t be where I am without him and I know he wouldn’t wanna be anywhere else on his special day." This tragic coincidence has added a layer of sorrow to the already devastating news.
Australian rider Ben Currie, the reigning Supersport champion, expressed his grief on social media, saying, "Hard to put into words what happened today. Gutted for everyone involved. Two of our finest men lost to the sport we love. Thoughts are with all that are involved. RIP boys."
Freddie Barnes, one of the riders injured in the incident, shared his feelings from the hospital, stating, "I count myself incredibly lucky. My condolences go out to Owen and Shane’s family and friends. I’m absolutely devastated, I have no words so ride on in paradise boys."
Other riders also took to social media to express their heartbreak. TJ Toms said, "I really don’t know what to say right now. Two lads I feel absolutely privileged to call mates. My heart, love, and thoughts go out to OJ’s family and to Hanna and Shane’s little family. Thank you for all our memories boys." Harry Truelove added, "No words. You will be missed," while Joe Sheldon-Shaw remarked, "Absolute pleasure sharing the track with these gents over the years, had some great races with both these lads, and a lot of laughs off the track with OJ. Heartbreaking day today, I’m lost for words honestly. The paddock won’t be the same without them."
The tragic events at Oulton Park have cast a shadow over the opening weekend of the British Superbike season, which is set to continue with the next event scheduled at Donington Park in two weeks. The motorsport community is now left to grapple with the loss of two promising riders while remembering their contributions to the sport.
As investigations continue, the focus will remain on ensuring the safety of riders in the future. The sport, known for its thrilling speeds and excitement, also carries inherent risks that are a stark reminder of the dangers faced by competitors every time they take to the track. The British Superbike Championship has a dedicated fanbase and is broadcast internationally, but this incident will serve as a somber reminder of the fragility of life in the world of motorsport.
In the wake of this tragedy, it is clear that the memories of Owen Jenner and Shane Richardson will live on in the hearts of their families, friends, and fans. The community mourns their loss while also celebrating their lives and the joy they brought to the sport they loved.
