Franck Petricola

The 2015 Isle of Man TT has sadly claimed its first fatality of the new season. French rider Franck Petricola died during qualifying on June 3 at around 7:45 PM local time after crashing at a point of the course called Sulby Crossroads. He was 32 years old.

This was Petricola's first running in the Isle of Man TT, but he was a veteran motorcycle racer. He had intended to make his debut on the island course last year, but an injury while racing prevented him from competing. According to a statement from the event organizers, "The Coroner of Inquests has been informed and an investigation into the circumstances of the accident is underway."

The Isle of Man TT course is quite possibly the most dangerous racing venue in the world. The race course claimed the lives of five riders last year.

Our condolences go out to Petricola's friends and family.