Dutch motorbike racer Joey den Besten has died in a crash during an IRRC Superbike race in Finland, the sport’s authorities have confirmed.

The 30-year-old from Borculo lost control of his bike during the formation lap for the Imatranajo race on Sunday, suffering fatal injuries.

“Our most heartfelt condolences to the family and fellow riders. He will be missed,” the race organisers said in a post on Twitter.

ANNOUNCEMENT
We regret to inform you that rider Joey Den Besten lost his life today in the IRRC Imatranajo race. The rider lost control of his bike on the formation lap of the Superbike race. Our most heartfelt condolences to the family and fellow riders. He will be missed.

— Imatra Road Races – Imatranajo (@Imatranajo) July 2, 2023

It was the second racing fatality involving a Dutch competitor in two days, after 18-year-old Dilano van ‘t Hoff was killed in a crash during a Formula Regional car race in Belgium on Saturday.

Den Besten was riding for the German team Motorradtechnik Geenen and had twice been world champion in the IRCC Supersport 600 category, in 2014 and 2017.

Police are investigating the incident and the race authorities are expected to release further details on Monday.