The 2013 Isle of Man TT has been rocked by tragedy after Japanese rider Yoshinari Matsushita was killed in an accident on Monday evening. The Tyco Suzuki rider, 43, was involved in an incident at the Ballacrye section of the mountain with the session immediately being red flagged and he would later succumb to his injuries.
Matsushita made his TT debut in 2009 and took fifth in the 2011 TT Zero race as well as being a regular competitor in the Superstock and Superbike classes and Team Manager Philip Neill was shocked by tonight’s news.
“Everyone within our team is devastated about tonight’s terrible events. We were very much looking forward to working with Yoshinari during TT2013 and pass on our deepest condolences to his family and fellow team members.”
Clerk of the Course Gary Thompson added his own tribute to the Saitama rider who also boasted a Motegi Endurance race win on his CV.
“Yoshi was a really popular competitor who had a large number of friends in the TT Races paddock. He was a genuine and friendly character who always had time for everyone. He will be sorely missed.”
In an statement from the ACU, it was confirmed that the Coroner of Inquests had been informed and that an investigation into the circumstances of the accident is underway. Everyone at The Checkered Flag extends our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Yoshinari Matsushita.
