Tom Tunstall on the Mend After Tragic Oulton Park Crash

Rider Injured in Oulton Park Crash Says He’s “Making Progress” as Community Rallies in Grief and Support

In the wake of a devastating incident at Oulton Park that claimed the lives of two young racers, British motorcycle rider Tom Tunstall has spoken publicly for the first time since the crash, offering both an update on his own recovery and a heartfelt tribute to the riders lost.

The crash, which occurred during the opening lap of the British Supersport Championship race on May 5th, was one of the darkest days in recent memory for British motorsport. An 11-bike pile-up in the early stages of the race resulted in fatal injuries to 21-year-old Owen Jenner and New Zealand’s Shane Richardson, a father of two. Tunstall, one of the most experienced riders on the grid at 47, was among those seriously injured.

Now, after weeks of intensive treatment and rehabilitation, Tunstall has been discharged from hospital and has shared an emotional message about his road to recovery—and the tragedy that continues to weigh heavily on his mind.

“Step-by-Step Progress Every Day”

Tunstall Resilience a Quiet Inspiration

Tunstall, known in paddocks across the UK for his calm demeanour and longevity in the sport, took to Facebook to post his first extended update since the incident. Writing from home, he opened by saying he was “very glad to be out of hospital” after “a difficult few weeks”.

What followed was a sobering description of the physical damage he sustained in the crash: “Multiple fracture to C1 vertebrae, torn ligaments and cracked skull,” he wrote. “After eight days in traction, now being supported with a Halo frame screwed into my head for the next 2–3 months, which should hopefully fix that.”

He also revealed additional injuries, including a separated collarbone, rotator cuff damage, and nerve issues affecting his tongue. These, he noted, were showing “very slight” improvement day by day.

Despite the long road ahead, there was gratitude in his message. “Very grateful for the quality of all the treatment received from the trackside, medical centre and hospital—their expertise has given me the best chance of recovery.”

The Lives Behind the Headlines

While Tunstall’s injuries have understandably drawn concern and support from across the motorsport community, it’s clear that his thoughts remain with the riders who didn’t make it.

“So desperately sad to hear about the tragic loss of Owen and Shane—both great, genuine people and very talented riders gone far too soon,” he wrote.

His statement, stripped of PR polish and full of quiet emotion, stood as a reminder that even in a sport defined by adrenaline and speed, human connections run deep. “My thoughts and sincerest condolences are with their families, friends and teams,” he added.

A Sport in Mourning

The aftermath of the Oulton Park crash has shaken the British racing scene to its core. Tributes to Jenner and Richardson have poured in from all corners of the racing world—teams, fellow riders, fans, and organisers all uniting in grief and remembrance.

Owen Jenner was a rising star, just 21 years old, already making a name for himself with his natural talent and fearless approach on track. Shane Richardson, originally from New Zealand but a familiar face in the British paddock, was admired for his dedication and spirit, both as a rider and a family man.

The emotional impact of their loss has rippled far beyond the paddock. Moments of silence were observed at circuits across the UK in the following weeks, while messages of support for their families flooded social media. Fundraisers were quickly set up to support their loved ones, with donations coming in from fellow racers and fans alike.

Tunstall’s Resilience a Quiet Inspiration

For Tunstall, the crash marked not just a physical blow, but an emotional one. A veteran of the British Superbike and Supersport scenes, he’s known for his no-nonsense style and enduring presence in the sport.

Though he’s now sidelined indefinitely, his willingness to speak openly about the mental and physical toll of his injuries has resonated with many. In a discipline where toughness is often associated with silence, Tunstall’s message struck a different chord—one of vulnerability, reflection, and perspective.

Support has come in steadily. Former rivals, team members, and long-time supporters have praised his courage and sent well-wishes as he begins a long recovery process. Riders at Donington Park last week paid tribute by adding small decals with Jenner and Richardson’s names to their bikes. Several also made reference to Tunstall’s recovery in post-race interviews, reminding everyone that the paddock remains close-knit, even in the darkest of times.

Looking Ahead with Caution and Hope

As Tunstall continues his recovery with the Halo device that will remain in place for the next few months, the question of his future in racing remains unanswered—and rightly so. At this stage, the focus is firmly on healing, not returning.

For the sport itself, Oulton Park was a grim reminder of the dangers inherent in motorcycle racing. Safety protocols are being reviewed, with officials vowing to examine every aspect of the incident. While motorsport can never be risk-free, the response in the aftermath has shown a community committed to learning, improving, and—most importantly—supporting each other.

A Community That Rides Together

Through tragedy, British motorsport has once again shown its heart. In Tom Tunstall’s measured, emotional words, we see both the fragility of the sport and the strength of those who live it.

As he quietly makes progress—step by painful step—he carries not just the weight of his own injuries, but the memory of two riders who can no longer ride. It’s a burden no racer should have to bear, yet one he does with humility and honour.

And so, while Tunstall continues to recover behind closed doors, the racing world rides on—but with heavy hearts, and with two more names etched into its history.