Racer suffered neck and chest injuries - inquest

A racer killed in a crash during qualifying for the Manx Grand Prix suffered neck and chest injuries, an inquest has been told.

Mauro Poncini, from Caslano in Switzerland, died in the crash at Cruickshanks in Ramsey on 18 August.

The crash, which also involved another rider, happened on the opening lap of the evening qualifying session on the 37.7 mile (61km) Mountain Course at about 18:50 BST.

The inquest heard the 29-year-old had become separated from his machine at the corner and had landed a short distance back.

Poncini, who was a painter, was a newcomer at the Manx Grand Prix (MGP) and had previously taken part in the North West 200 in Northern Ireland.

Adjourning the inquest, coroner James Brooks passed on his condolences to Poncini's family and friends.

Darren Taubitz, representing the Auto Cycle Union (ACU), also offered condolences on behalf of the organisation.

Held in parallel with the Classic TT each year in August, the MGP is run by ACU Events Ltd.

Poncini was the first of two riders killed during qualifying for the 2026 MGP. Manxman Sam Naughton, 37, died in a crash at Doran's Bend on the western section of the course on 19 August.

Race organisers previously said in a statement: "Mauro Poncini was an experienced competitor within the Supersport and Supertwin classes, with an established record of competing at a number of road racing events prior to making his Mountain Course debut.

"The Manx Grand Prix Races pass on their deepest sympathy to his father Florio, mother Manuela, sister Marzia and girlfriend Sharon, as well as his family and friends."

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