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Victor Steeman's death at 22 leaves motorsport community in shock

sam goodwin
Sports Editor
·4-min read
Victor Steeman, pictured here during a World Superbikes race.
Victor Steeman died from injuries suffered during a race. Image: Getty

The motorsport community is mourning the tragic death of 22-year-old World Superbikes rider Victor Steeman, who was involved in a horrific crash during a race on Saturday.

The Dutch rider was involved in a crash with a number of other riders during the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship Race 1 in Portugal.

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Steeman went down heavily on Turn 14 at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, with the race immediately red-flagged.

The 22-year-old was transferred to hospital with serious head injuries, where he later died.

Steeman's family said in a statement: “Something you have always been afraid of as a parent of a motorcycle racer has now happened. Our Victor could not win this last race.

“Despite the unbearable loss and grief, we are extremely proud to share with you that our hero, through his passing, was able to save five other people by donating his organs.

“We would like to thank everyone for the way you have lived with us over the past few days. We will miss our Victor enormously.”

World Superbikes wrote on social media: “We’re deeply saddened to report the loss of WorldSSP300 rider Victor Steeman.

“The WorldSBK family would like to send all our love to his family, team and loved ones. A great personality, a fierce racer and a legacy left embedded in our paddock forever. Ride in Peace, Victor.”

Victor Steeman, pictured here in the SuperSport 300 race during the Dutch Round in April.
Victor Steeman rides in the SuperSport 300 race during the Dutch Round in April. (Photo by Andre Weening/BSR Agency/Getty Images)

Motorsport world in shock over devastating tragedy

Team Suzuki Ecstar tweeted: "We’re lost for words as another young rider has lost his life chasing dreams in the sport we all love.

"Victor Steeman, may you forever rest and ride in peace. Our love and condolences go to your family."

MotoGP added: “It’s with great sadness that we have learned about the passing of WorldSSP 300 rider Victor Steeman.

“All within the MotoGP family send our condolences to the family, friends and team of Victor at this difficult time. Ride in Peace, Victor.”

Steeman had picked up four race wins and five podiums this season and was in the hunt to win the World Championship.

His death is the fourth in the last 17 months in either Moto3 or Supersport 300, following similar tragedies involving Dean Berta Viñales, Jason Dupasquier and Hugo Millán.

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