Vintage-car race crashes kill two drivers on same day
Julian Grimwade, a classic-car enthusiast, was killed while competing at the Vintage Sports Car Club race at Donington Park, Leicestershire, on Saturday.
Motorsport UK, the national governing body, confirmed his death and said an investigation would be carried out.
Dai Roberts, 39, was killed while taking part in the Jim Clark Rally, an annual closed-road race in the Scottish Borders on Saturday.
Motorsport UK said in a statement: 'It is with great sadness that Motorsport UK confirms the passing of Julian Grimwade, who was competing at the Vintage Sports Car Club's race event at Donington Park.
'Motorsport UK joins the entire UK motorsport community in mourning and sends its sincerest condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Julian, as well as the Vintage Sports Car Club.
'As with all serious incidents, Motorsport UK will conduct an investigation into the matter and co-operate with the relevant external authorities.'
Donington Park shared the statement on Facebook and added: 'Our thoughts go to the family and friends of the driver, as well as those in the VSCC community.'
Silverstone racetrack paid tribute to Mr Grimwade, and said on X: 'It is with great sadness that we understand a competitor at today's Vintage Sports Car Club's race event at Donington Park has died.
'All of us here at Silverstone Circuit send our sincerest condolences to the friends, family and loved ones of the racer.'
Leicestershire Police confirmed no criminal investigation was taking place. A spokesperson for the force said: 'Police were notified of a single vehicle collision at a licensed track day at Donington Park yesterday [24 May].
'The driver of the vehicle – a man in his 70s – was taken to hospital where he was later pronounced deceased. Enquiries are continuing on behalf of HM Coroner.'
The international motorsport governing body, the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), said there had also been a fatality at an event in Denmark on Saturday.
A statement shared on X said: 'We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of those who have sadly lost their lives.
'Our thoughts are also with those injured in the accidents and we send our best wishes to them for their full and swift recovery.
'The FIA offers its support to Motorsport UK and the Danish Automobile Sports Federation at this difficult time and stands alongside all those affected.
'The tragic incidents have united our global motor sport community as we reaffirm the FIA's full support to our members, officials and competitors.'
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