Tragic accident at the Manx GP: Mauro Poncini did not survive. He was only 29 years old.
The motorcycle racing world mourns the tragic death of Mauro Poncini, a Swiss rider from Caslano in the Canton of Ticino, who was killed in a terrible accident during the Manx Grand Prix qualifying session. The accident, which occurred on the first lap of Tuesday’s session on the roads of the Isle of Man, took place at Cruickshanks, in the Ramsey area, around 6:50 p.m. Despite efforts to save his life, nothing proved effective, and the rider’s death was confirmed on Wednesday.
Poncini was competing in the Manx Grand Prix for the first time, but he was not a complete novice in road racing: he had already raced in the North West 200 in Northern Ireland and had experience in the Supersport and Supertwin classes. His adventure on the Mountain Course, which began this year, came to an end in the most tragic way.
The news has deeply shaken the racing community and left his family and team in immense grief. The organizers of the Manx Grand Prix issued a message of condolence: “The Manx Grand Prix organization extends its deepest sympathies to his father Florio, his mother Manuela, his sister Marzia, and his girlfriend Sharon, as well as to his family and friends. Mauro was an experienced rider with a solid track record in various road racing events.”
The Swiss Motorcycling Federation expressed “deep shock and immense sadness” at the rider’s passing. “Mauro,” the statement reads, “was a man with an extraordinary heart, deeply devoted to his loved ones and kind to everyone. He was much loved by his fellow riders and appreciated by all for his great humanity. He was a passionate and deeply dedicated rider who lived out his passion with courage and absolute determination. Now, far too soon, that same passion has taken him to heaven.”
The road between Ramsey Bus Station and Lheaney Road remained closed for over three hours following the accident to allow for the investigation. Organizers confirmed that an investigation is underway, as required by standard event procedures. Qualifying for the 2026 Manx Grand Prix began on Sunday and, following the interruption, will continue through August 28 on the famous 37.7-mile Mountain Course.
