The World Superbikes community has been left devastated by the death of Victor Steeman, aged just 22.
Steeman was involved in a horror crash at the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship Race 1 in Portugal over the weekend.
He was one of a number of bikes to be involved in the incident on turn 14 at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve.
He was airlifted to Faro hospital with serious head injuries as the race was red flagged, where he later passed away.
In a statement, his family said: "Something you have always been afraid of as a parent of a motorcycle racer has now happened. Our Victor could not win this last race.
“Despite the unbearable loss and grief, we are extremely proud to share with you that our hero, through his passing, was able to save five other people by donating his organs.
"We would like to thank everyone for the way you have lived with us over the past few days. We will miss our Victor enormously."
Steeman had registered four wins and five podiums so far across the course of the season and was still in the hunt to be crowned world champion.
It marks the second death within the motorbike community in just a few days, after the passing of Chrissy Rouse aged 26.
A host of tributes have been paid to Steeman in the wake of the tragic news.
WorldSBK posted on Twitter: "We’re deeply saddened to report the loss of WorldSSP300 rider Victor Steeman.
"The WorldSBK family would like to send all our love to his family, team and loved ones. A great personality, a fierce racer and a legacy left embedded in our paddock forever.
"Ride in Peace, Victor."
MotoGP added: "It's with great sadness that we have learned about the passing of WorldSSP 300 rider Victor Steeman.
"All within the MotoGP family send our condolences to the family, friends and team of Victor at this difficult time.
"Ride in Peace, Victor."
Fellow rider Glenn Irwin said: "Rest in peace Victor Steeman. Taken way too soon."
