Robert's dead???

Hermy

Robert Dunlop was killed today in practice for the 250cc in the North West 200.
How long before they ban road racing? The great and the good of this wonderful sport are dropping like flies and I just wonder how much longer the carnage will be allowed to go on.

aidan_dunne

This was the first I heard of this. I'm shocked and saddened at the news.

Like Joey, a great rider and ambassador for the sport. Never thought he would ride again after the crash he had some years ago but he proved everybody wrong.

This will definitely put a major dampener on the NW200 this weekend. And, you're right Hermy, the way things are going I think it's only a matter of time now before this type of road-racing is banned. I'm surprised that, in these health-and-safety obsessed times we live in, road-racing has been allowed to continue up until now, in fact, and wasn't banned years ago. As I said, with the recent tragic events, I think it's surely only a matter of time now before someone says "enough is enough" and it's banned completely.

However, that's a debate for another time. For now, I just want to say.......

Robert Dunlop, thanks for all the great memories. May you rest in peace.

Hermy

I had a few beers before I heard the terrible news so apologies if there was a hint of hysteria in my opening remark. I'd prefer that road racing continued but it just seems like every time you go to the Skerries 100 [or whatever is your annual road race meeting of choice] the guys you were cheering for last year are dead and buried come the following year.

gucci

RIP Robert, a great loss to motorsport and obviously to his family too. especially after losing Joey too.

demac

Very sad news.

cashmni1

RIP, peace to his family.

bandit197

The loss of a true legend. My sincere condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. Rest in peace Robbie.

Edwardius

RIP Robert and of course, Martin Finnegan. The roads seem to be taking a lot of high profile riders in the last few years (dave Jefferies, Richard Britton etc etc). Road racing is one of the most spectacular sports on the planet and the lads that compete are absolute bloody heroes and warriors, from first to last place. Not sure about banning it. The lads who compete are well aware of the risks. I'd say the fella that prepped Robert's machine is in some state. An engine seizure shouldn't have taken someone like Robert though.

elmolesto

RIP Robert, great loss the motorsport world.

Dcully

RIP Robert
Roberts son Michael just won the 250 NW200 race,amazing race and an amazing tribute to his Dad.