Tributes paid to 'one of the very best' 

Sam Naughton was killed in MGP qualifying yesterday

Tributes have been paid to Manx Grand Prix rider Sam Naughton after he died in qualifying yesterday (19 August).

Naughton lost his life in an incident at Doran's Bend during the third session of the 2026 event. 

Manx Grand Prix

In a statement MGP organisers said: "The Manx Grand Prix Races pass on their deepest sympathy to his wife Charlotte, his children Bonnie, Liam, Jesse and Parker, his family, and friends."

The 37-year-old, who lived in Castletown, made his debut in 2025 and was in his second year of competing at the event. 

Castletown Metropolitan Football Club

Elsewhere, Castletown Metropolitan Football Club, where Naughton was a junior coach, said his death is 'absolutely heart-breaking'.

In a post on social media the organisation adds: "Sam lost his life doing something he truly loved at the Manx Grand Prix, but he was so much more than a racer. 

"He was a devoted husband and father, a brilliant coach and a genuinely kind, caring and fun person.

"Sam loved training the boys and always had their best interests at heart. 

"He encouraged them, believed in them and made sure they enjoyed themselves along the way. The time, care and enthusiasm he gave them will never be forgotten.

"One of the very best, who will be missed more than words can say.

"Thinking of Sam’s family, friends and everyone whose lives he touched."

It's Legit Racing

Meanwhile, his team It's Legit Racing also posted a tribute on social media. 

The outfit said: "We are utterly devastated to hear that Sam Naughton sadly lost his life". 

Naughton was a regular competitor at a number of other road racing events after starting racing in 2020. 

It's Legit Racing continued: "The truth is, we hardly knew Sam. Our paths crossed almost completely by chance after we spotted a post on Facebook. 

"We saw someone chasing a dream, saw an opportunity where we might be able to help, and decided to do what we could to help get him to the Manx GP.

"In such a short space of time, that chance post became something that meant far more to us than we ever expected.

"We are immensely proud to have played even the smallest part in helping Sam get to do something that he loved. But never, for one moment, did we imagine that we would be writing these words.

"Our hearts go out to Sam's wife Charlotte, his young family, his friends, his team, and everyone whose lives Sam has touched. We cannot begin to imagine what they are going through.

"We may only have known Sam for a short time, but sometimes people cross your path briefly and still leave a mark.

"Ride in peace, Sam."

Andreas Racing Association also posted a tribute for Sam Naughton which you can see HERE.