Who was Owen Jenner and what happened to the British Superbike rider at Oulton Park?
OWEN JENNER sadly passed away after a devastating crash at a British Superbikes event at Oulton Park.
The 21-year-old was involved in an 11-man ‘chain reaction’ collision after the first turn of Monday’s race in Cheshire, killing him and fellow rider Shane Richardson.
Owen, from East Sussex, raced for Rapid Honda and became British GP2 champion in 2024 after winning 18 out of 20 races.
Rapid Honda has previously said: “Owen has impressed us all at Rapid Honda over recent seasons and his career is on a clear ascendancy.
“He should be a title challenger in British Supersport in 2025.”
What happened to Owen Jenner?
The incident happened at the first turn when one rider lost control and skidded across the tarmac into another, resulting in a ‘chain reaction’ crash.
One bike caught fire within the pile-up, which saw medics race onto the track before the event was abandoned.
Owen, racing under number 86, initially received immediate medical attention trackside before being rushed to the circuit’s medical centre.
Despite attempts to resuscitate him, Owen passed away due to a “catastrophic head injury”.
New Zealander Shane Richardson, 29, also died as a result of the crash while fellow Brit Tom Tunstall was taken to hospital with significant back and abdominal injuries.
Five other riders were treated for minor injuries but did not require additional medical assistance.
In an official statement, MotorSport Vision Racing, who are responsible for circuit operations at Oulton Park, confirmed the heartbreaking news about Shane and Owen’s passing.
It read: “At the start of this afternoon’s Quattro Group British Supersport Championship race at Oulton Park, exiting turn one, Old Hall corner on the first lap, there was a chain reaction incident involving 11 riders falling. The race was immediately stopped and trackside medical services deployed.
“Due to the extreme severity of the incident and ongoing medical intervention, the remainder of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship event was cancelled.
“This catastrophic accident has tragically resulted in two riders being fatally injured, and another sustaining significant injuries.”
Fellow British Superbike rider Glenn Irwin posted on social media to pay tribute to Owen and Shane.
He said: “Owen you were always smiling, just a young kid chasing your dream and having fun along the way.
“Shane, I didn’t know you personally but watching videos and photos of you and your little family I can see how much of an amazing dad and partner that you are along with being a top rider.
“Rest in peace boys – life can be so so cruel. We will continue to offer support to your families in the coming times ahead, my thoughts go to the entire British Superbike team of organisers, Marshals, medics and the wider community.”
Isle of Man TT race winner and British Superbike rider Peter Hickman said: “Gutted beyond belief. Our sport can be so cruel sometimes.
“My thoughts are with all the families of everyone involved in that tragic accident yesterday. Ride in peace boys.”
National Superstock rider Kam Dixon said he “lost a brother today”.
“There really wasn’t anyone like our OJ [Owen Jenner]. This kid was such a talent and will always be in my heart, he was the best mate.
“Not many people can say they have won three British Championships. Love you mate.”
Why is Owen Jenner’s death being investigated by police?
An investigation has been launched by Cheshire Police following the tragic crash.
Cheshire Police said: “Police are investigating two deaths on behalf of the coroner following a multiple collision at Oulton Park this afternoon.
“Emergency services were called to the scene following the collision which resulted in two riders being fatally injured and another with serious injuries.
“The Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board and MotorSport Vision Racing are investigating the full circumstances of the incident in conjunction with the Coroner and Cheshire Police.”
Owen Jenner’s racing history
Owen had a prolific racing career, being crowned Superstock champion in 2020 and 2023.
The Brit also became GP2 champion in 2024, winning the title with 18 wins out of 20 race finishes.
The 21-year-old was predicted by many, including his team – Rapid Honda, to reach the top of British Superbikes.