OULTON PARK, UK — The British motorsport community is in mourning following the deaths of two riders, Shane Richardson and Owen Jenner, who were fatally injured in a horrific crash during the British Supersport Championship race at Oulton Park on Monday.
The incident, which occurred on the first lap of the race, involved 11 riders in a multi-bike collision. The crash claimed the lives of 29-year-old father-of-two Shane Richardson from New Zealand and 21-year-old rising star Owen Jenner from Crowborough, East Sussex.
Another rider, 47-year-old Tom Tunstall, remains in the Royal Stoke University Hospital with serious but stable injuries, including a broken bone in his neck and significant back and abdominal trauma.
Doctors are monitoring his condition and will soon determine if surgery is necessary, but remain hopeful for his full recovery. Five other riders were treated for minor injuries and released.
The crash has sent shockwaves through the motorsport world, with teams, fans, and fellow racers paying tribute to the two men whose lives were tragically cut short.
Jenner, widely regarded as one of British racing’s brightest young talents, began his career in Junior Motocross before transitioning to road racing.
His impressive resume included winning the 2018 Team Green title, the 2020 Junior Supersport championship, and the 2023 Junior Superstock crown. In 2024, Jenner dominated the British GP2 series with 18 wins out of 20 race finishes.
He had recently signed with Rapid Honda in November 2024, a move seen by many as the next big step in his promising career.
In a heartfelt statement, Rapid Honda expressed “sadness beyond words,” saying: “Our deepest condolences go out to the families, friends, and teams of Owen during this unimaginably difficult time, and to those of Shane Richardson, who also sadly lost his life.”
“Our thoughts are also with Tom Tunstall and his family as he continues to receive medical care. Losing two talented riders is a huge loss to the entire motorsport community.”
Team Green Racing also paid tribute to Jenner, calling him “one of the great characters of the paddock and an incredibly talented racer.”
Shane Richardson, known for his determination and sportsmanship, had long been a respected figure in the New Zealand and UK racing circuits. Tributes for Richardson have poured in from across the globe, with many highlighting his passion for racing and devotion to his family.
Race organizers and the British Superbike Championship have yet to release a full report on the circumstances of the crash but have confirmed that a thorough investigation is underway.
Fans have begun leaving flowers, notes, and racing memorabilia at the circuit gates in remembrance of the two riders. A moment of silence is expected to be held at the next scheduled race in their honor.
As the sport grapples with the tragedy, the legacy of Shane Richardson and Owen Jenner will be remembered not only for their on-track achievements but also for the spirit and camaraderie they brought to the racing community.
