Dani Rivas and Bernat Martinez have died

Dani Rivas and Bernat Martinez have lost their lives after a multiple-bike collision at turn one during the opening lap of yesterday’s MotoAmerica race at Laguna Seca.

Running as a support series for the World Superbike championship, both riders were among five that fell at the 120mph corner on the first lap of the combined Superbike and Superstock 1000 race.

Bernat Martinez, a Spanish former Moto2 racer for Bimota, was transported from the raceway by ambulance to Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula (CHOMP) in Monterey, where he succumbed to his injuries. He was 35.

Daniel Rivas Fernandez, who was originally set to join the MCE British Superbike championship for 2015 with the MQ Racing team, was transported by REACH Medical Air Services to Natividad Medical Center in Salinas, where he also succumbed to injuries. He was 27.

Speaking in a statement released by the organisers, MotoAmerica president Wayne Rainey said that their main role at the minute is supporting both Dani and Bernat’s families.

“I really don’t have any words to describe what we all feel. First and foremost, is the loss to the families and loved ones. Our sincere condolences goes out to each and every one of them as well as the MotoAmerica family. They are in our thoughts and prayers.”

Motorcycle News joins MotoAmerica in offering our deepest sympathies to the families, friends, and fans of both Dani and Bernat.