Moto2 rider Luis Salom has died at the age of 24 following a crash during free practice at the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona today.
The incident is believed to have occurred at the fast turn 12, although no other drivers are thought to have been involved in the crash.
Salom received lengthy treatment at the side of the track before he was transferred to hospital, where he died of his injuries at around 3.55pm UK time.
In an official statement, MotoGP said: "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 16:55pm local time."
As a Moto3 rider, Salom claimed nine wins and 20 podium finishes and since moving to Moto2 in 2014, he reached the podium three times, including a second-place finish at the opening round of the 2016 season in Qatar.
Neil Wilkes
