Day: 19 August 2026

2026 Manx Grand Prix : Sam Naughton :

STATEMENT ISSUED AT 19:30 ON WEDNESDAY 19 AUGUST 2026

STATEMENT ISSUED FROM THE MANX GRAND PRIX RACES

The Manx Grand Prix Races is deeply saddened to announce that Sam Naughton, 37, from Castletown, Isle of Man, died in an incident during Wednesday afternoon’s qualifying at the 2026 Manx Grand Prix. The incident occurred at Doran’s Bend, during the third qualifying session of the event.

Having made his debut in 2025, Sam was in his second year of competing at the Manx Grand Prix, and was a regular competitor at a number of other road racing events since he began racing in 2020.

The Manx Grand Prix Races pass on their deepest sympathy to his wife Charlotte, his children Bonnie, Liam, Jesse and Parker, his family, and friends.

Ends

---

2026 Manx Grand Prix : Mauro Poncini :

STATEMENT ISSUED AT 17:00 ON WEDNESDAY 19 AUGUST 2026

STATEMENT ISSUED FROM THE MANX GRAND PRIX RACES

With great sadness, the Manx Grand Prix Races confirms that Mauro Poncini, 29, from Caslano, Switzerland, died in an incident during Tuesday’s qualifying at the 2026 Manx Grand Prix. The incident occurred at Cruickshanks, on the opening lap of the second qualifying session.

Mauro was an experienced competitor within the Supersport and Supertwin classes, with an established record of competing at a number of road racing events prior to making his Mountain Course debut this year.

The Manx Grand Prix Races pass on their deepest sympathy to his father Florio, mother Manuela, sister Marzia and girlfriend Sharon, as well as his family and friends.

Ends

---