Two drivers killed at UK racing events as police issue statements on separate incidents

The world of motorsport is mourning after the deaths of two drivers at separate events on Saturday. Julian Grimwade died in a crash at the Vintage Motorsport Festival at Donnington Park, while Dai Roberts passed away following an incident at the Jim Clark Rally.

Grimwade was driving in a Vintage Sports Car Club (VSCC) event in Leicestershire when he crashed. A police spokesperson said: "Police were notified of a single vehicle collision at a licensed track day at Donington Park yesterday (24 May).

"The driver of the vehicle – a man in his 70s – was taken to hospital where he was later pronounced deceased. Enquiries are continuing on behalf of HM Coroner. Identification of the deceased is a matter for the coroner."

Motorsport UK said in a statement: "It is with great sadness that Motorsport UK confirms the passing of Julian Grimwade, who was competing at the Vintage Sports Car Club’s race event at Donington Park today.

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"Motorsport UK joins the entire UK motorsport community in mourning and sends its sincerest condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Julian, as well as the Vintage Sports Car Club.

"As with all serious incidents, Motorsport UK will conduct an investigation into the matter and cooperate with the relevant external authorities."

Roberts, 39, was pronounced dead at the scene near Duns, on the D41/6 Edrom Mains road, in the Scottish Borders on Saturday morning. He was the co-driver for James Williams, 27, who was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh hospital with serious but non life-threatening injuries.

Superintendent Vincent Fisher of Police said: “Our thoughts are with the family of the man who has died and inquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.”

A statement read: "Motorsport UK is deeply saddened to announce that co-driver Dai Roberts lost his life in an incident at the Jim Clark Rally on Saturday 24 May 2025. Driver James Williams was taken by ambulance to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh with serious but not life-threatening injuries.

"Motorsport UK sends its condolences to Dai’s family and friends, the Jim Clark Rally, Jim Clark Memorial Motor Club and members of the motorsport community. Motorsport UK has initiated a full investigation into the circumstances of the incident and will work closely with the Jim Clark Rally event organisers and Jim Clark Memorial Motor Club and will cooperate with the relevant authorities."

The rally is named after two-time Formula One champion Jim Clark and takes place on closed roads in the Scottish Borders every year.

International motorsport governing body, the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile, also released a statement, which mentioned another incident at the Nykøbing Falster Motor Sport's Anniversary Rally in Denmark on Saturday.

"We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of those who have sadly lost their lives," it read. "Our thoughts are also with those injured in the accidents and we send our best wishes to them for their full and swift recovery."

It added: "The tragic incidents today have united our global motor sport community as we reaffirm the FIA's full support to our members, officials and competitors."