Organizers of the Manx Grand Prix have confirmed the death of Irish motorbike racer Louis O’Regan, who succumbed to injuries sustained during a qualifying session for the 2024 event.
O’Regan, 43, was involved in an accident on the 37.73-mile (60-kilometer) circuit at Kate’s Cottage, part of the annual Manx Grand Prix held on the Isle of Man.
The Manx Grand Prix, often viewed as an amateur counterpart to the renowned Isle of Man TT races, mourned the loss of the experienced competitor in a statement released Sunday.
“With great sadness, the organizers of the Manx Grand Prix confirm that Louis O’Regan has died following injuries sustained in an accident at Kate’s Cottage during the opening qualifying session of the 2024 event,” the statement read.
O’Regan made his debut at the Manx Grand Prix in the 2013 Newcomers A Race, finishing 12th.
His best lap speed, recorded during the 2019 Junior Race, was an impressive average of 114.7 mph.
The incident adds to a troubling trend at the event, following the deaths of Gary Vines and Ian Bainbridge during the 2023 qualifying sessions.
Subsequent inquests were opened, and new tire regulations were introduced in response to Vines’ death.
The Manx Grand Prix community remains deeply affected by the loss, reflecting ongoing concerns about safety at the historic race.
