Seriously injured Manx Grand Prix racer 'faces long road ahead' as treatment continues at specialised spinal unit
An Italian competitor seriously injured in a crash at the Manx Grand Prix in August faces a “long road ahead” as he continues to be treated at the Spinal Unit in Vicenza.
Salvatore Sallustro crashed on the opening day of the 2026 festival at Greeba Bridge and spent 12 days in a medically induced coma after sustaining a spinal cord injury.
A policeman and pilot, the 41-year-old is a European Hill Climb Superbike champion.
His partner Tabita Piu has launched a GoFundMe fundraiser to support his treatment and therapies, which raised almost €15,000 in only a few days.
Sallustro undergoes an intense daily therapy programme as doctors and physiotherapists work to offer him the best chance of recovery.
In a post on the GoFundMe page, Tabita said: “Salvo is more than just a man fighting to reclaim his life after a spinal cord injury. He is a highly talented rider who has always faced every challenge with passion, discipline, and courage.
"He is a Carabiniere - a man who has dedicated his life to serving others - but, above all, he is my partner and the father of a wonderful two-year-old girl, who waits for his return home every single day and serves as his greatest source of strength.
“He is currently a patient at the Spinal Unit in Vicenza, where he tackles an intensive rehabilitation program with unwavering determination each day. While his doctors and therapists are doing everything in their power, the road ahead remains long and may eventually require care at a highly specialized center.
“Giving him the best chance at recovery will necessitate months of intensive rehabilitation, physical therapy, potential transfers, specialized medical aids, and ongoing care and support. Many of these expenses are not fully covered by the National Health Service, placing a significant financial burden on our family.”
She added that “every donation”, no matter how small, would make a difference in aiding his recovery.
“Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for every act of solidarity, for every share, and for the kindness and support you choose to show us,” she wrote.
“Together, we can give Salvo the best possible chance to reclaim his life and embrace his family once again.”