Second rider killed in Manx Grand Prix qualifying

A second competitor has died during qualifying for the Manx Grand Prix on the Isle of Man.

Sam Naughton, from Castletown on the island, was killed in a crash at Doran's Bend, on the western section of the course, on Wednesday afternoon.

The 37-year-old was competing in the event for the second time, having made his debut on the 37.7 mile (61km) Mountain Course in 2025.

Naughton is the second rider to be killed during qualifying for the 2026 Manx Grand Prix (MGP) following the death of Mauro Poncini in a crash in Ramsey on Tuesday.

Poncini was killed in an incident at Cruickshanks on the opening lap on the evening qualifying session.

In a statement, Manx Grand Prix Races said it was deeply saddened to announce the death of Naughton, who had been a regular competitor in other road racing events since 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," it added.

Qualifying for the MGP, which is held in parallel to the Classic TT, is scheduled to continue on Thursday afternoon.

The events began on Sunday, with racing set to conclude on 28 August.

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