AFP/Paris
French motorcyclist Franck Petricola has died following an accident during a qualifying session at the Isle of Man TT races, organisers announced.
“ACU Events Ltd regrets to announce that French rider Franck Petricola, 32, from Pont-a-Mousson was killed following an accident at Sulby Crossroads at approximately 7.45pm (1845 GMT) during this evening’s (Wednesday) qualifying session at the Isle of Man TT races,” organisers said in a statement. “The ACU wishes to pass on their deepest sympathy to Franck’s family and friends.”
An investigation into the accident has been opened. Petricola had been due to make his debut in the annual event—which takes place on the Isle of Man in the Irish Sea—in 2014, but withdrew following a crash that left him with multiple fractures and a head injury. He is the 141st rider to die at the event since 1907.
Speaking about his 2014 crash earlier this year, he said: “I don’t remember why I crashed but I accept it. I am a big boy. When you ride in a road race you know it is possible to have a hard crash like this. It is not a problem.”
Practice week continued last night, with the first race of this year’s event held tomorrow.
Marussia name Leimer as official reserve
Swiss driver Fabio Leimer will take part in free practice sessions at Formula One Grands Prix this season after being appointed official reserve at the Manor Marussia team on Wednesday.
The team did not specify in a statement how many Friday sessions Leimer, winner of the 2013 GP2 support series, would be involved in.
