Maria Costello admits life-changing Isle of Man TT injuries “hard for me to take in”

Maria Costello has thanked fans for their ongoing support and continued donations, after providing a fresh update on her recovery from life-changing injuries suffered at the 2026 Isle of Man TT. 

Costello, who was competing in the Sidecar class alongside Shaun Parker, suffered paralysis from the T5/T6 vertebrae down, a broken back including fractures to both vertebrae, a broken arm, multiple broken ribs, a broken sternum, a broken nose and eye socket, as well as a Grade 4 liver laceration and facial injuries.

The pair suffered their accident at Brandish, which ultimately led to a shortened session. Following further incidents, the Sidecar class was then suspended for the remainder of the 2026 TT Races.

In an update provided at the end of June, Costello revealed that the four weeks that followed her accident had been the most challenging of her life.

Costello has since taken to social media to give fans another update on her condition, which has involved moving hospitals and beginning her lengthy rehab. However, Costello is still waiting to visit a specialist hospital. 

Costello’s social media post said: 

“It’s not been easy to give you updates for many reasons, mainly because this is just so hard for me to take in right now. So thank you for your patience. 

“I can tell you I have moved hospitals and some rehab has started but I’m still waiting to go to a specialist hospital. The bruising has gone, my wrist has been plated but some bones are still mending.

“I don’t have a lot more to share now but I will be taking you on this journey with me, as I don’t think I can do it without you because your support so far has absolutely made the difference.”

Due to her ongoing recovery, Costello was unable to attend this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, which took place on July 9-12. That said, Costello was still present in the minds of people that attended, while her fundraiser was shared by The Duke of Richmond, which she also addressed as part of her statement. 

Costello added: 

“My heartfelt thanks go to The Duke of Richmond for sharing my fundraiser page during the event. I also want to thank Duncan Pittaway for his part in raising more funds. This all means so much right now.

“If you are able to donate, no matter how small the amount, every contribution really will make a difference. If you’re not in a position to donate, please consider sharing my fundraising page instead.

“Thank you to everyone who has already donated.”

Donations can still be made by heading over to Costello's GoFundMe page, which has a new target of £350,000. So far, £296,810 has been raised for the trailblazing road racer.

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