Dean Berta Vinales, 15, passes away following WorldSSP 300 incident

Dean Berta Vinales has passed away following an accident during the WorldSSP 300 race at Jerez, it has been confirmed. 

The 15-year old Spaniard - cousins to MotoGP rider Maverick and WorldSBK racer Isaac - was involved in a multi-rider accident on Lap 11 of the first WorldSSP 300 race at Turn 2.

Despite the efforts of medical teams, FIM and Dorna have confirmed Dean Berta Vinales succumbed to head and thoracic injuries in the medical centre. 

A member of the Vinales racing family, he also competed as part of Angel Vinales’ WorldSSP 300 team, achieving a best finish of fourth place at Magny-Cours.

Full statement from Dorna and the FIM

“After a serious incident during WorldSSP300 Race 1, Dean Berta Viñales has sadly succumbed to injuries.

“Following a serious incident in the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship’s Race 1 during the Motul SpanishRound at the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship round, it is with great sadness that we report the passing of rider Dean Berta Viñales (Viñales Racing Team).

“The rider suffered severe head and thoracic injuries. Medical vehicles arrived at the site immediately and the rider was attended to on track, in the ambulance and at the circuit Medical Centre.

“Despite the best efforts of the circuit medical staff, the Medical Centre has announced that Berta Viñales has sadly succumbed to his injuries.

“Berta Viñales was enjoying a recent run of good form in his rookie season in the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship, claiming a best of fourth place at Magny-Cours in Race 2 and backing it up with sixth in Barcelona-Catalunya Race 2, having set the fastest lap in Race 1. He was showing great potential during the Motul Spanish Round, in the leading group and starting from his best Superpole result of tenth.

“The FIM, Dorna and the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto pass on our deepest condolences to Berta Viñales’ family, friends, team and loved ones.”

All remaining track activity for the day - the first WorldSBK and WorldSSP races - have been cancelled.

Visordown would like to extend our condolances to Dean Berta Vinales' family and friends