Photo from Superbike World Championship Twitter
Fifteen-year-old Dean Berta Vinales died following a crash in the Supersport 300 support race of the World Superbike Championship in Jerez, organizers said on Saturday.
The race was 11 laps old when Spaniard Vinales crashed along with three other riders at turn two, forcing the director to red flag the race.
We’re deeply saddened to report the loss of Dean Berta Viñales.
The #WorldSBK family sends love to his family, loved ones, and his team. Your personality, enthusiasm, and commitment will be hugely missed.
The whole motorcycle racing world will miss you, Dean. Ride in Peace. pic.twitter.com/46KuUt4Vnl
— WorldSBK (@WorldSBK) September 25, 2021
Always in our hearts and never forgotten.
Dean Berta Viñales🖤 pic.twitter.com/h7wZ8tYB8o
— WorldSBK (@WorldSBK) September 25, 2021
“After a serious incident during WorldSSP300 Race 1, Dean Berta Vinales has sadly succumbed to injuries,” World Superbike said in a statement.
“The rider suffered severe head and thoracic injuries. 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 Vinales has sadly succumbed to his injuries.”
RIP Dean, you will be missed.
📃 | #WorldSBK https://t.co/x1fN6XLqrv
— WorldSBK (@WorldSBK) September 25, 2021
The race and the remainder of Saturday’s action were canceled.
Vinales is the cousin of MotoGP rider Maverick Vinales and he rode for the Vinales Racing Team.
“We’re devastated by the tragic loss of @DeanBerta21 following a crash in #WorldSSP300 Race 1 today,” MotoGP wrote on Twitter.
“Sending all our love and strength to Maverick Vinales and Dean’s entire family, his team and loved ones.”
Six-time MotoGP champion Marc Marquez wrote: “Rest in peace Dean. All my support to family and friends.”