Statement – Luis Salom
Following an incident during today’s Moto2 Free Practice 2 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, it is with great sadness that we have to report the passing of Luis Salom (SAG Team).
The session was red flagged with just under 25 minutes remaining after the Spanish rider fell at turn 12.
Two medical cars and then two ambulances were immediately on scene to treat the 24-year-old and the medical helicopter was also deployed to assist in his treatment.
Due the severity of his condition, the decision was taken to transfer Salom by road to the nearby Hospital General de Catalunya. On arrival, he underwent surgery, but despite the best efforts of the trauma team, he passed away at 1655pm local time.
Salom made his World Championship debut at Jerez in 2009 in the 125cc category. He finished on the podium in 25 races, including nine victories in the Moto3 World Championship. He finished the 2012 Moto3 World Championship in second position in the standings and a year later was third overall after battling with Maverick Vinales and Alex Rins down to the final round in Valencia.
He also finished on the podium three times in 41 appearances in the Moto2 World Championship, including a second place pace in the opening round of 2016 at the Losail International Circuit in Qatar.
The FIM, Dorna, IRTA, RFME and the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya wishes to pass on its condolences to the family, friends and team of Salom.
More, from a press release issued by Honda Racing Corporation (HRC):
Honda HRC message of condolence
Honda HRC, together with riders Marc Marquez, Dani Pedrosa and the entire Repsol Honda Team, wish to express their deepest condolences to the family, friends and team of Moto2 Spanish rider Luis Salom, who tragically lost his life today during free practice for the Catalan GP.
More, from a press release issued by Tech 3:
Due to the tragic incident involving Moto2 rider Luis Salom, the entire Tech3 team would like to send their deepest condolences to his family, the SAG team and everyone else affected. It was an honour for us all to be touched by his passion for racing, his kindness and good nature and it was a privilege to race with Luis over the years and. He will forever remain in our hearts and we will stand united with all those affected.
During the opening day to the Cataluña Grand Prix, the riders were midway through FP2 before Salom’s accident caused the session to be red flagged and eventually cancelled.
Again the entire team would like to send their condolences to Luis’ family and friends.
More, from a press release issued by Team Suzuki Press Office:
Team SUZUKI ECSTAR wishes to pass on its condolences and deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Moto2 rider Luis Salom who succumbed to injuries following an incident in today’s second Free Practice session at the Catalunya MotoGP™.
More, from a press release issued by Forward Racing:
Goodbye Luis
It is with great sadness that we have learned the passing away of Luis Salom. Forward Racing Team wishes to express its condolences for the loss of Luis to his family, team and friends. We will miss him on the grid.
More, from a press release issued by Movistar Yamaha:
LUIS SALOM
Montmelò (Spain), 3rd June 2016
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd., the Movistar Yamaha MotoGP team and its riders, Jorge Lorenzo and Valentino Rossi, express their heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and team of Moto2 Spanish rider Luis Salom, who tragically passed away today at Montmelò.
R.I.P. Luis.
More, from a press release issued by Marc VDS Racing Team:
Team Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS were saddened to hear that Luis Salom succumbed to injuries sustained in a crash during Free Practice 2 here in Barcelona and has passed away.
Luis was a fierce competitor and our heartfelt condolences go to his family, friends and the SAG team at this very sad time.
Michael Bartholemy: Team Principal
“We all know the risks involved in motorcycle racing, but the death of someone competing in the sport that we love always hits you hard. Luis was a fierce competitor who enjoyed some success over the years. It is with a heavy heart that we bid him farewell after such a tragic turn of events this afternoon. Rest in peace Luis.”