Organisers have confirmed that a second rider has died at the Manx Grand Prix, with 37-year-old Sam Naughton killed in a crash on Wednesday afternoon.
Naughton, a father of four from Castletown on the Isle of Man, died in an incident at Doran's Bend on the western section of the 37.7-mile Isle of Man course. He was competing in his second Manx Grand Prix, having made his debut in 2025.
Second fatality at the event
Naughton's death follows that of Mauro Poncini, 29, from Caslano in Switzerland, who died in another crash on Tuesday, August 18. Poncini was one of 75 newcomers to this year's event.
Organisers announced the second death late on Wednesday, stating: "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."
Details of the incident
According to the statement, the incident occurred at Doran's Bend during the third qualifying session of the event. Naughton began racing in 2020 and was a regular competitor at a number of other road racing events.
Organisers expressed their condolences: "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."
Event continues
The event is scheduled to continue on Thursday afternoon, along with the Classic TT. It is set to be completed on August 28.
