FIA Mourns Young Kart Racer Joaquim van Thuyne Killed in Tragic Fire

The FIA and the wider motorsport community are in mourning following the death of 18-year-old Swiss kart racer Joaquim van Thuyne. He was one of 40 victims of a tragic New Year's Eve fire at a bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana. The governing body praised his professionalism, kindness, and passion for the sport in a heartfelt tribute.

Why it matters:

This tragedy underscores the profound human connections within the motorsport community, extending from grassroots karting to the pinnacle of F1. The loss of a young, promising driver resonates deeply, serving as a somber reminder of the shared passion that unites all competitors. The FIA's public tribute reflects its role not just as a regulator, but as the heart of the global racing family.

The details:

• The Victim: Joaquim van Thuyne, 18, was a promising Swiss driver who recently achieved a top-10 finish in the X30 Challenge Switzerland. He raced with the Swiss Hutless Team and was also a member of a local junior football team.
• The Tragedy: The fire at the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana killed 40 people and injured 119, with 15 of the deceased under the age of 18.
• Cause: A preliminary investigation points to lit sparklers on bottles being held too close to the ceiling as the likely cause of the blaze. A criminal investigation has been launched against the bar's owners.
• Community Response: The FIA's joint statement with FIA Karting has garnered widespread support, with F1 figures like Jack Doohan, Jean Alesi, and Otmar Szafnauer sharing their condolences.

Looking Ahead:

While a criminal investigation proceeds, the motorsport world will continue to rally around van Thuyne's family, friends, and teammates. His memory will be honored by the community he was a part of, a testament to a bright future tragically cut short.