The International Road Racing Championship (IRRC) was shaken by a tragic event this weekend. The final stage of the competition, held at the Frohburg circuit in Germany, was marked by the death of Italian rider Luca Salvadori, 32 years old.
The incident occurred on Saturday night, during the first lap of the SBK/STK 1000 class race. In a fast left turn in front of the paddock, local rider Didier Grams crashed. Salvadori, who was participating in his third IRRC race of the season, following Hengelo and Schleiz, was involved in the accident.
The gravity of the situation became immediately evident. Despite the efforts of the medical teams, Salvadori did not survive his injuries and passed away in the hospital. Grams also sustained serious injuries, including multiple fractures.
Originally from Milan, Salvadori had recently finished the 2023 MotoE World Championship in 17th position. His participation in the IRRC demonstrated his versatility and passion for motorcycling in different competition formats.
The event organizers called a special meeting on Sunday morning to inform the riders about the tragic outcome. Despite the shock and sadness, it was decided that the event would proceed as planned. However, participants were given the freedom to decide whether or not they wished to compete in the remaining races.
This incident casts a shadow over what should have been an exciting season finale. Title decisions in the Supersport and Superbike classes, which were still open, took a back seat to this tragedy.
The Frohburg circuit, hosting its 61st edition of this traditional event, has thus become the scene of one of the darkest moments in the recent history of road motorcycling.
To the family and friends of Luca Salvadori, MotorcycleSports extends its deepest condolences.