A young rally driver has tragically died in a horrific crash while his brother, who was driving the vehicle in the race, remains in intensive care. The devastating accident occurred during the Rallye de La Ceramica 2026 in Spain's Castellon province on Friday evening.
Details of the Incident
The two brothers, Samuel Ortiz, 30, and Jordi Ortiz, 33, were competing in the rally when their Honda Civic left the track on the CV-189 road between L'Alcora and Onda. The car slammed into a crash barrier, resulting in immediate fatal injuries for Samuel, who served as co-driver. Jordi, the driver, was rushed to Castellon General University Hospital in a very serious condition.
Immediate Response and Suspension
Firefighters had to cut both men from the wreckage. One victim died upon impact, while the other was treated by the event's medical team and emergency responders. Following the tragedy, organisers from the Rallye Club Costa Azahar decided to suspend the remainder of the event as a sign of mourning and respect.
In a statement, the club said: "During the second leg of the Rallye de la Ceramica on Friday, car number 32, crewed by brothers Jordi and Samuel Ortiz, was involved in a serious accident. As a result, co-driver Samuel died at the scene, while the driver was evacuated to hospital in a very critical condition. Upon becoming aware of the situation, the Organizing Committee decided to suspend the event as a sign of mourning and respect."
Tributes from the Motorsport Community
Following the news, tributes have poured in from across the motorsport world. Jose Ramon Planelles Sanchez wrote: "Samuel Ortiz has died in the Rallye de La Ceramica. RIP. Great sadness in our rally world. A great person leaves us, always smiling. We hope for a speedy recovery for his brother Jordi, who is seriously injured in hospital."
Villaviciosa Motorsport added: "We mourn the passing of co-driver Samuel Ortiz. R.I.P. We send our condolences to all his family and friends – much strength to everyone who knew him. And we wish his brother Jordi Ortiz a speedy recovery. Our support goes to the organisers – a wise decision to suspend the competition."
Rallye Festival Hoznayo also paid tribute, saying: "We would like to express our deepest condolences on the passing of Samuel Ortiz. In these very difficult times, we send all our strength and best wishes for a swift and full recovery to his brother Jordi. A big hug to all his family, friends and loved ones. Rest in peace, Samuel."
