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Kamil Holan Killed in North West 200 Qualifying Crash

5/9/2026

Summary

Kamil Holan Fatal Crash

Czech rider Kamil Holan, 48, died after crashing at Station Corner in the opening Superbike qualifying session of the North West 200 in Northern Ireland.
The crash caused a red-flag halt and emergency services could not revive him.
He is the first international-road-race fatality since 2016 and the 20th death in the event’s 97-year history.

Summary

Organisers Cancel

Organisers cancelled Thursday night’s scheduled races and replaced them with extra qualifying sessions.
The Coleraine and District Motor Club said Thursday road closures will run from 4.45 pm to 9 pm, now covering qualifying.
Holan’s family gave permission for the event to continue but asked that his name not appear in promotions.
Road Racing Ireland issued a statement extending sincere condolences to Holan’s family, friends, team and all affected by the crash.

History

Historical Context

1972 Italian rider Gilberto Parlotti died on the Isle of Man TT, prompting Giacomo Agostini and Grand Prix stars to demand safety reforms. Their boycott caused the FIM to drop the TT from the world championship after the 1976 season, moving round to Silverstone. The 2024 crash of North West 200 rider Kamil Holan forced the Coleraine Motor Club to cancel races, reviving safety debate.

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Kamil Holan Fatal Crash

Czech rider Kamil Holan, 48, died after crashing at Station Corner in the opening Superbike qualifying session of the North West 200 in Northern Ireland.
The crash caused a red-flag halt and emergency services could not revive him.
He is the first international-road-race fatality since 2016 and the 20th death in the event’s 97-year history.

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