Swiss Moto Federation pays tribute to Mauro Poncini who it says was rider killed in a red flag crash at the Manx Grand Prix on Tuesday
The Swiss Moto Federation has paid tribute to Mauro Poncini, who tragically died following an incident in Manx Grand Prix qualifying on Tuesday evening.
A red flag accident occurred at Cruickshanks in Ramsey, with one rider suffering fatal injuries. A second rider involved escaped without serious injuries.
The 29-year-old Swiss rider has been described as someone with an “extraordinary heart” who “will forever remain part of our motorcycling family”.
Poncini was due to ride for Northern Ireland team Scott Racing in his maiden year at the Manx Grand Prix.
A statement issued across the Swiss Moto Federation social media channels said: “It is with profound shock and immense sadness that we have learned of the passing of our rider, Mauro Poncini.
“Mauro lost his life on August 18, 2026, during qualifying for the Manx Grand Prix on the Isle of Man. He was only 29-years-old.
“Mauro was a person with an extraordinary heart, deeply affectionate toward his loved ones and everyone around him.
“Thanks to his warm and open nature, he was well-loved by fellow riders and appreciated by all for his great humanity.
“With Mauro’s passing, the Swiss motorcycling family loses a passionate and deeply committed rider.
“He lived his passion wholeheartedly, with courage and absolute dedication. Now—far too soon—that same passion has taken him to the heavens.
“During these difficult times, our thoughts are with his family, loved ones, friends, fellow riders, and his team.
"We offer them our deepest condolences and wish them great strength.
“Rest in peace, Mauro. You will forever remain part of our motorcycling family.”
The Manx Grand Prix expressed “deepest sympathy” to his girlfriend, family and friends and said Poncini was “an experienced competitors within the Supertwin and Supersport classes”.
“With great sadness, the Manx Grand Prix Races confirms that Mauro Poncini, 29, from Caslano, Switzerland, died in an incident during Tuesday’s qualifying at the 2026 Manx Grand Prix,” a statement on Wednesday read.
“The incident occurred at Cruickshanks, on the opening lap of the second qualifying session.
“Mauro was an experienced competitor within the Supersport and Supertwin classes, with an established record of competing at a number of road racing events prior to making his Mountain Course debut this year.
“The Manx Grand Prix Races pass on their deepest sympathy to his father Florio, mother Manuela, sister Marzia and girlfriend Sharon, as well as his family and friends.”
On Sunday, Italian rider Salvatore Sallustro was involved in a red flag crash at Greeba Bridge. The Sicilian has been transferred to Aintree Hospital Liverpool, according to his partner Tabita Piu.