The rallying community is in mourning this week following a tragic incident at the Manx National Rally on the Isle of Man. Organizers have confirmed that a competitor has passed away after suffering a medical emergency during the event, which kicked off its competitive stages on Friday morning.

In a joint statement, Motorsport UK and event organizers Manx Auto Sport expressed their deep sorrow, saying they were "deeply saddened to confirm that a competitor participating in the Manx National Rally today has passed away following a medical incident during the event." As a mark of respect, the stage where the incident occurred will not be run again for the remainder of the rally. No further details about the nature of the medical incident have been released.

This year's rally had drawn a record-breaking entry of 170 teams, making it one of the most anticipated events on the Isle of Man's motorsport calendar. The action began with a "shakedown" session in the north of the island on Thursday evening, followed by competitive stages on closed roads across the island starting at 09:00 BST on Friday. Originally scheduled to feature 22 special stages, the rally now continues without that particular stage as a tribute to the fallen competitor.

The statement continued: "Motorsport UK and the organizing team extend their sincere condolences to the family, friends and the wider rallying community at this difficult time." Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragedy—a stark reminder of the risks that come with the thrill of motorsport.