FATHER OF FOUR SAM NAUGHTON DIES IN MANX GRAND PRIX CRASH

ISLE OF MAN — The Manx Grand Prix has been struck by tragedy after 37-year-old rider Sam Naughton died during qualifying, becoming the second competitor to lose his life during this year’s event.

Naughton, from Castletown on the Isle of Man, was involved in a crash at Doran’s Bend during Wednesday afternoon’s third qualifying session. Event organizers confirmed his death later that day.

SECOND FATALITY IN QUALIFYING

The tragedy came just one day after Swiss rider Mauro Poncini, 29, was killed during qualifying at Cruickshanks in Ramsey.

The deaths have cast a shadow over the 2026 Manx Grand Prix, with competitors and organizers mourning two riders in the opening stages of qualifying.

A RETURN TO THE MOUNTAIN COURSE

Naughton was competing in the Manx Grand Prix for the second time.

He made his debut in 2025 and had been involved in road racing since 2020. The event takes place on the famous 37.7-mile Mountain Course, one of the world’s most demanding motorcycle racing circuits.

For Naughton, racing was more than a competition. It was a passion he had pursued for years.

HE LEAVES BEHIND A WIFE AND FOUR CHILDREN

Away from the track, Naughton was a husband and father.

He leaves behind his wife, Charlotte, and their four children — Bonnie, Liam, Jesse and Parker.

The Manx Grand Prix Races extended its deepest sympathy to his family and friends following the devastating news.

QUALIFYING CONTINUES UNDER A SHADOW

Qualifying for the Manx Grand Prix is being held alongside the Classic TT. The 2026 event began Sunday and is scheduled to continue through August 28, with further qualifying sessions planned.

But after two fatal crashes in the opening qualifying sessions, the racing community is facing an agonizing period of mourning.

Sam Naughton came to the Mountain Course to pursue a sport he loved. He leaves behind a wife, four children and a community now mourning a father, husband and fellow racer whose life ended doing what he was passionate about.