Moto2 rider dies after practice crash in Barcelona

Luis Salom, a Moto2 rider, died Friday after suffering injuries during a practice crash for the Catalan Grand Prix in Barcelona.

Salom, 24, was participating in his third year on the circuit. During the second practice session, he fell at Turn 12. He was treated on the scene, then taken to Hospital General de Catalunya, where he died after undergoing surgery.

The statement from MotoGP reads:

“Following an incident during today’s Moto2 Free Practice 2 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, it is with great sadness that we have to report the passing of Luis Salom (SAG Team).

“The session was red flagged with just under 25 minutes remaining after the Spanish rider fell at turn 12.

“Two medical cars and then two ambulances were immediately on scene to treat the 24-year-old and the medical helicopter was also deployed to assist in his treatment.

“Due the severity of his condition, the decision was taken to transfer Salom by road to the nearby Hospital General de Catalunya. On arrival, he underwent surgery, but despite the best efforts of the trauma team, he passed away at 1655pm local time.

“Salom made his World Championship debut at Jerez in 2009 in the 125cc category. He finished on the podium in 25 races, including nine victories in the Moto3 World Championship.

“He finished the 2012 Moto3 World Championship in second position in the standings and a year later was third overall after battling with Maverick Vinales and Alex Rins down to the final round in Valencia.

“He also finished on the podium three times in 41 appearances in the Moto2 World Championship, including a second place pace in the opening round of 2016 at the Losail International Circuit in Qatar.

“The FIM, Dorna, IRTA, RFME and the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya wishes to pass on its condolences to the family, friends and team of Salom.”

Salom, from Mallorca, is the first rider to die on the MotoGP circuit since 2011, when Marco Simoncelli died during the Malaysian Grand Prix.