In a tragic turn of events at the Oulton Park circuit in Cheshire, two motorcycle racers lost their lives following a catastrophic crash during the British Supersport Championship race on Monday, May 5, 2025. The incident involved a shocking chain reaction that saw 11 bikes collide at the first corner, Old Hall, mere moments after the race commenced.
Owen Jenner, a promising 21-year-old from Crowborough, East Sussex, was treated trackside before being rushed to the circuit's medical center. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he succumbed to a "catastrophic head injury". Shane Richardson, aged 29 and originally from New Zealand, sustained severe chest injuries and tragically passed away en route to Royal Stoke University Hospital.
In addition to Jenner and Richardson, a third rider, Tom Tunstall, 47, was also seriously injured and is currently receiving treatment for significant back and abdominal injuries at the same hospital. The severity of the incident prompted organizers to cancel the remainder of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship event, prioritizing the health and safety of all participants.
According to Motorsport Vision Racing, which oversees the event, the crash occurred as riders exited the first turn, leading to a chaotic scene that required immediate medical intervention. The organization stated, "Due to the extreme severity of the incident and ongoing medical intervention, the remainder of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship event was cancelled." This decision was made to ensure that emergency services could focus on the injured riders.
Cheshire Police have confirmed that they are investigating the two deaths on behalf of the coroner. In a statement, they noted, "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." This investigation aims to uncover the details surrounding the crash and ensure accountability moving forward.
Owen Jenner was a rising star in the world of motorcycle racing, having clinched the British GP2 championship title in 2024 with an impressive record of 18 wins out of 20 race finishes. He had recently signed with the British superbike team Rapid Honda, with hopes of becoming a title challenger in the British Supersport series this year. His team expressed their grief, stating, "Owen has impressed us all at Rapid Honda over recent seasons and his career is on a clear ascendancy."
Shane Richardson, on the other hand, was known for his dedication to the sport and his family. A father of two, he had transitioned from running a bespoke kitchen business to competing on the UK's premier racing circuits. He was part of the Astro JJR Hippo Suzuki team, which had recently renewed its partnership with him. The team shared a heartfelt tribute, emphasizing the tight-knit nature of the motorcycle community, stating, "We share the profound sadness at the outcome of today’s accident at Oulton Park. Our thoughts are with the riders, their families, friends, team members and the entire BSB paddock."
The crash not only claimed the lives of two talented racers but also left a mark on the entire racing community. The event was part of the Quattro Group British Supersport Championship, which serves as a critical support series to the prestigious British Superbike Championship. This championship is known for featuring 600cc machines, which are smaller yet incredibly powerful, capable of reaching speeds of over 200 mph.
As the investigation unfolds, many within the sport are paying tribute to Jenner and Richardson, reflecting on their contributions and the impact they had on their teams and fans. The motorcycle racing world has come together in mourning, sharing memories and condolences on social media platforms.
Five other riders involved in the incident were treated for minor injuries at the track's medical center but did not require hospitalization. These riders were Carl Harris, Max Morgan, Cameron Hall, Freddie Barnes, and Morgan McLaren-Wood. Additionally, three other riders, Lewis Jones, Corey Tinker, and George Edwards, were also part of the crash but fortunately escaped without injuries.
The Oulton Park incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks involved in motorsport, where speeds can be extreme and accidents can occur in the blink of an eye. As the community reflects on this tragedy, the focus remains on supporting the families of those affected and ensuring that safety measures are thoroughly reviewed to prevent future accidents.
In the days following the crash, tributes have poured in from across the racing world, highlighting the camaraderie and support that exists among riders, teams, and fans. The loss of Owen Jenner and Shane Richardson will be felt deeply, and their legacies will continue to inspire future generations of motorcycle racers.
