Victor Steeman's family rocked by new tragedy after rider's death at 22

Family of the late World Superbikes star Victor Steeman have been rocked by a fresh tragedy, just two days after the death of the 22-year-old rider.

News of Steeman's death rocked the world of motorsport, with the young Dutch rider killed as the result of a horrific crash during a race last Saturday.

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In another devastating blow for the 22-year-old's family, Steeman's mother has also passed away after reportedly suffering cardiac arrest at her home in the Netherlands.

Race Sport reports that Steeman's mother, Flora van Limbeek, died at the age of 59 less than 48 hours after her own son's tragic passing.

It's been a particularly sad week for the motorsport world, with legendary British rider Phil Read also dying earlier in the week.

The 83-year-old won eight world championships and 52 grand prix victories during a career that spanned from 1961 to 1975.

Both Read and Steeman were honoured at Phillip Island ahead of the Australian MotoGP, with the paddock uniting to pay tribute to the fallen stars.

Steeman died as the result of a crash involving a number of riders during the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship Race 1 in Portugal.

The Dutch rider 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, with medical staff unable to save the young rider.

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.”

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.

Motorsport world pays tribute to Victor Steeman

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.”

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.”

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