Following a serious incident during Race 1 of the Motul Spanish Round of the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship at the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto, it is with great sadness that we report the passing of rider Dean Berta Viñales (Viñales Racing Team).
Berta Viñales was involved in a multi-rider incident at Turn 1, with the race immediately Red Flagged. Medical vehicles arrived at the site immediately and the rider was attended to on track, in the ambulance and at the circuit Medical Centre.
Despite the best efforts of the circuit medical staff, the Medical Centre has announced that Berta Viñales has sadly succumbed to his injuries.
Berta Viñales, cousin of MotoGP™ rider Maverick Viñales, was enjoying a recent run of good form in his rookie season in the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship, claiming a best of fourth place at Magny-Cours in Race 2 and backing it up with sixth in Barcelona-Catalunya Race 2, having set the fastest lap in Race 1. He was showing great potential during the Motul Spanish Round, in the leading group and starting from his best Superpole result.
The FIM, Dorna Sports and the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto pass on our deepest condolences to Berta Viñales’ family, friends, team and loved ones.
Following the incident, the remainder of Saturday’s action at Jerez has been cancelled.