An incident before the start of the Enduropale du Touquet in France has caused anger among fans, as one rider rode over another before the race had even started.
Le Touquet is one of the most famous names in off-road racing, with the Enduropale being one of the standout beach races, and a part of the new FIM Sand Racing World Cup.
The 2023 edition was won by Britain’s Todd Kellett, ahead of Cyril Genot and Milko Potisek. Kellett’s winning margin was over two-and-a-half minutes.
Before the race had begun, though, there was controversy, as, on the road to the start line, one rider fell in the middle of the road. As he slid, the riders behind were forced to avoid. The moment was caught on camera by one spectator as one such rider slowed down as he approached the fallen competitor, before hitting the gas as he rode over him.
Understandably, the action caused an audibly shocked response from the crown at the side of the road, and outrage on social media when the video was posted.
A petition has been launched on the French website Mes Opinions (My Opinions) calling for the exclusion of the rider who rode over his competitor. Mes Opinions identifies the rider, #322, as Tom Maurizi and describes his action as “cruel.” The petition is addressed to the French Motorcycle Federation (FFM), and 10,000 signatures are required. At time of writing (7 February 2023) it has 9,436.
Le Parisien reports that Maurizi apologised on Sunday for his actions.
