Racer's Haunting Final Words Before Deadly Crash: "Looking Forward to Tomorrow"

By Lewis Barnett 6 May, 2025 6 mins read 37 Views

God. I can't even write this without feeling sick to my stomach. Two young men gone just like that—in what should have been just another race day at Oulton Park.

Shane Richardson, only 29, posted what would become his final interview on Instagram less than 24 hours before disaster struck. The clip shows him smiling, talking about his sprint race performance with that quiet confidence racers have.

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Those Final Words Hit Different Now

"Sprint race was good. Bad start, went back with quite a few positions," he said in the video. "But we managed to figure it out, get some good consistent pace going, matching the times with a few of teh boys ahead of us."

Then came those words that just punch you in the gut: "So yeah, looking forward to tomorrow, hopefully get a better start and be a bit more in the mix."

Tomorrow never came for him. Or for 21-year-old Owen Jenner.

When Racing Goes Terribly Wrong

I've been covering motorsport for years, and these moments never get easier. My colleague texted me when the news broke: "Not again. Can't believe we're writing another one of these stories." What do you even say to that?

The crash was catastrophic—11 bikes involved at turn one. I've watched races at Oulton Park back in 2018, and that first corner can be absolute chaos even on a good day.

Richardson, a New Zealander riding for Astro-JJR Hippo Suzuki, suffered severe chest injuries. The medical team tried everything. He was being transferred to Royal Stoke University Hospital but died before arrival.

Two Young Lives Snuffed Out

Jenner, just 21 and competing for Rapid Honda, died at the circuit medical centre from what officials described as "a catastrophic head injury" despite resuscitation attempts.

I spent $200 on tickets to a Superbikes event last summer. Sat there with my brother-in-law drinking overpriced beers, cheering riders we'd never met. That's the thing about this sport—it's thrilling precisely because of the danger, but then something like this happens and you feel like a ghoul for enjoying it.

This wasn't supposed to happen.

The Aftermath Isn't Pretty

Tom Tunstall was also seriously hurt in the pile-up, suffering "significant back and abdominal injuries" according to the official statement. Five other riders were treated for minor injuries.

Police have already launched an investigation, which is standard procedure when deaths occur. The remainder of the event was cancelled. How could it continue after something like this?

I remember interviewing a retired racer once who told me, "We all know the risks. Doesn't make it any easier when we lose someone." He'd lost three friends to the sport. (Wonder how many he's up to now.)

When Words Feel Useless

The British Superbike Championship released a statement confirming the deaths. It's one of those carefully worded things that somehow makes the tragedy feel both clinical and more real.

I've been staring at photos of both riders for the past hour. Richardson in his yellow and blue racing suit. Jenner's headshot showing a young man with his whole life ahead of him.

Their families got that phone call nobody should ever receive.

And all I can think about is that Instagram post. "Looking forward to tomorrow."

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DRS Formula 1? How does it work

Drag Reduction System in Formula 1 helps to facilitate overtaking. It reduces aerodynamic resistance when it is activated. This gives the following car a temporary edge in speed. DRS only works in predetermined zones, or at points of detection during the race when a driver has less than one second between him and the car in front.

What is the role of aerodynamics in Formula 1?

Aerodynamics is crucial to Formula 1 as it affects drag and downforce. Downforce pushes the car into the track and increases grip. It also allows drivers to maintain their high speeds without losing control. Teams dedicate extensive resources to refine aerodynamic performance in pursuit of every possible advantage over their competitors.

What is the difference between slick and wet tires in F1?

Formula 1 Slick Tires are designed for dry, hot conditions. They have a smooth, flat surface that provides maximum grip. Wet tire tread patterns, such as those on intermediates and complete wets reduce the risk for aquaplaning. While full wets work best in heavy rain, intermediates can handle light to moderate rain.

How often do Formula 1 Teams develop new cars each year?

Formula 1 car teams are known to develop new models for every season. This is due in part to the constantly changing technical regulations as well as the teams' constant pursuit of improved performance. The car is constantly being developed by the teams throughout the year, and they bring updates to races regularly to give them an edge in the championship.

What are power units in Formula 1 cars?

A Formula 1 power unit comprises a hybrid internal combustion engine (ICE) and an Energy Recovery System (ERS). The ICE is a turbocharged V6 engine, while the ERS captures energy from the car's braking and exhaust systems to provide additional power. This combination not only increases performance, but also efficiency. It contributes to the fascinating mix of speed and advanced technology in the sport.

How does weather affect Formula 1 races

Weather conditions can have a significant impact on Formula 1 races, affecting tire choice, car setup, and strategy. Rain can make the track slippery, forcing drivers onto wet or intermediary tires. The teams must be ready to react quickly to changing circumstances, while drivers should show skill and caution. Temperature changes can impact engine performance and tire life, which in turn can change the course of an event.

How do Formula 1 teams transport equipment between races?

Formula 1 teams meticulously prepare the logistics of transporting their vehicles, parts, or equipment to all corners of the globe. For European races, trucks and air cargo are preferred. Each team is equipped with a dedicated logistical division, which ensures that all items arrive on time and are in excellent condition.

Statistics

The fastest lap ever recorded in Formula 1 was set by Juan Pablo Montoya, reaching a top speed of 372.6 km/h (231.523 mph).
Kimi Räikkönen holds the record for the fastest lap in Formula 1 history, set at the Italian Grand Prix in 2018 with an average speed of 263.587 km/h (163.785 mph).
Ferrari is the most successful team in Formula 1 history, with 16 Constructors' Championships to their name.
The 2020 Formula 1 season comprised the shortest calendar in recent history with just 17 races, due to the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
As of the end of the 2022 season, Formula 1 races have been held in 34 different countries around the world.
The Monaco Grand Prix is the shortest race on the Formula 1 calendar, with a total race distance of only 260.286 kilometers.
Sebastian Vettel became the youngest World Champion in Formula 1 history, securing his first title at the age of 23 years and 134 days in 2010.
Michael Schumacher holds the record for the most World Championships won by a single driver, with a total of seven titles.

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How To

How to Analyze Formula 1 Tire Strategy

Formula 1 tire strategies are complex decisions influenced by race conditions, circuit characteristics, and car performance. Understanding the performance of Pirelli's sole tire supplier and the different compounds available will help you analyze these strategies. Keep track of the tires used by each driver and how they change with race pace. Follow post-race analysis on F1 broadcasters or online motorsport publications, where experts break down the success or failure of different tire strategies employed during the race.