Scary pit-entry collision mars Moto2 practice in Thailand

A frightening collision in the pit lane marred Moto2 practice for the Thailand Grand Prix on Friday, as Somkiat Chantra and Deniz Oncu crashed heavily at the entry to pit lane. Chantra, who was riding for the Idemitsu Honda Team Asia squad, was preparing to enter the pits when he was hit from behind by the speeding Speed Up of Turkish rider Oncu. It was a huge impact, with both riders sent flying through the air before landing heavily on the asphalt. Medics rushed to the scene and both riders were stretchered away, with Chantra taken to the circuit medical centre and Oncu airlifted to a nearby hospital.

Thankfully, both riders were conscious after the crash, with Chantra suffering a suspected broken leg and Oncu a suspected broken collarbone. The incident overshadowed what had been a positive day for Thai rider Chantra up until that point, as he had set the sixth fastest time in the morning practice session. The crash also caused a lengthy delay to the session, which was eventually red-flagged.

The collision was one of several incidents in a dramatic day of practice at the Chang International Circuit, with a number of riders crashing out in the hot and humid conditions. The most serious of these was a crash involving Petronas Sprinta Racing rider Jake Dixon, who was taken to the medical centre after a heavy fall at Turn 12. Dixon was able to walk away from the incident, but he was later diagnosed with a concussion and ruled out of the rest of the weekend.

The incidents served as a reminder of the dangers of motorcycle racing, and the importance of rider safety. The Chang International Circuit is a notoriously challenging track, with a number of fast and flowing corners that can catch out even the most experienced riders. The high temperatures and humidity can also make conditions difficult for the riders, who are often pushed to the limit in their quest for speed.