Tragedy struck the 63rd edition of the La Bañeza Motorcycle Grand Prix as Galician rider Javier Álvarez Pérez, 47, lost his life during a practice session.

The accident occurred when Álvarez, representing MMG Racing, veered off the urban circuit in León, Spain, crashing into a safety barrier and subsequently a wall.

Despite the fatal incident, the event continued as planned, with organizers allowing participants to decide whether to race.

The Galician Motorcycling Federation and MMG Racing expressed deep sorrow over the loss, highlighting Álvarez's passion and dedication to the sport.

The accident has cast a shadow over the event, which draws around 80,000 spectators annually, yet the community remains united in honoring Álvarez's memory.