MotoAmerica racers Bernat Martínez and Daniel Rivas die after crash

A MULTIPLE-BIKE crash in lap one of yesterday’s second MotoAmerica Superbike/Superstock 1000 race at Laguna Seca has resulted in the deaths of two competitors.

Privateer BMW rider Daniel Rivas, 27, of Moana Galicia, Spain, was transported to Natividad Medical Centre in Salinas, California, where he succumbed to injuries.

Yamaha rider Bernat Martinez, of Alberic, Valencia, Spain, was taken to Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula in Monterey, where he also succumbed to his injuries. He was 35.

The two were among five to fall in the crash in the World Superbike supporting series.

A release just issued by BMW said: ‘With great disbelief and sadness, BMW Motorrad Motorsport has learned the sad news of the deaths of privateer BMW Motorrad rider Daniel Rivas and Yamaha rider Bernat Martínez, who lost their lives in a tragic accident yesterday, Sunday, during the MotoAmerica race at Laguna Seca.

‘This season Rivas was racing successfully in the FIM CEV Superbike European Championship. At Laguna Seca, the 27-year old competed with a wild card. The tragic incident occurred during the first lap of the second MotoAmerica race, when several riders fell in what was a chain-reaction. Rivas and Martínez succumbed to their injuries later in hospital.

‘BMW Motorrad Motorsport’s thoughts are with the families, friends and teams of the two riders, and the whole BMW Motorrad Motorsport community would like to express its most sincere condolences.

‘The sporting action at Laguna Seca and the weekend’s other racing events pale into insignificance for BMW Motorrad Motorsport after this tragic news.’

MotoAmerica president Wayne Rainey said: ‘I really don't have any words to describe what we all feel. First and foremost is the loss to the families and loved ones. Our sincere condolences goes out to each and every one of them as well as the MotoAmerica family. They are in our thoughts and prayers.'

Gill Campbell, CEO and general manager of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, said: ‘We are deeply saddened to learn the news of the passing of Bernat Martinez and Daniel Rivas. Our prayers and hearts go out to their families and teams.’