A 26-year-old Superbike rider has passed away following a violent crash at Leicestershire’s Donington Park race track last weekend.
Competitor Chrissy Rouse crashed heavily on the opening lap of Sunday’s race (October 2), and was unavoidably struck by an immediately following rider.
He sustained a significant head injury as a result of the collision.
The race was stopped and he was treated immediately trackside, before being transferred to the circuit medical centre.
He was stabilised and put in a medically induced coma at the medical centre before being transferred to Queens Medical Centre/University Hospital, Nottingham for further assessment and treatment. He underwent an emergency neurosurgical procedure shortly after admission.
However, the Newcastle native succumbed to his injuries yesterday afternoon (October 6), and passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family.
Many well-known British bike racers have being paying tribute, to Mr Rouse, who was also a maths teacher, as well as being a passionate rider. He moved into British Superbikes this season and rode for Crowe Performance BMW, the same team he won the national superstock title with in 2020
They include fellow British Superbikes competitors Tarran Mackenzie, Glenn Irwin and Peter Hickman.
Mackenzie tweeted: “This sport is so cruel sometimes. Talented in so many different ways and truly one of the nicest people in the paddock. RIP Chrissy.”
Irwin, currently second in the standings, called him a “truly talented person” who was “always smiling”, while Hickman said it was a “pleasure to know you and share a track with you, champ”.
The race organiser MSVR said it was investigating the tragic incident with the coroner, police and the Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board (MCRCB).
“Our deepest condolences are extended to Chrissy’s family, friends and team members,” they said in a statement.
“The family also ask for privacy at this difficult time as they attempt to deal with their devastating loss.”
