Ryota Haga, Son of Noriyuki Haga, Dies in Racing Accident

Ryota Haga, son of former World Superbike and MotoGP racer Noriyuki Haga, had sadly passed away following an accident in the All-Japan Roadrace Championship's ST600 class.

Motorcycle racing is not for the faint hearted, nor is it for the families and friends of riders as tragedies like this seemingly happen every year. Haga, who was the youngest of his father Noruyuki’s children, had only recently turned 21 years of age.

Competing in the ST600 class at the Autopolis course in Oita Prefecture, Japan, Haga ran into difficulty aboard his Yamaha YZF-R6, according to reports. The young Japanese rider was then hit from behind by two other racers. Haga received intensive treatment but it wasn’t enough to avoid his death.

A statement from Tetsuo Suzuki, Chairman of the Japan Motorcycle Federation, said: “On September 8th, Ryota Haga was injured at the "MFJ All Japan Road Race Championship Round 6 Superbike Race ST600 Class" held at Autopolis, and despite intensive treatment, he passed away.

“Upon hearing this tragic news, my heart aches as I recall his heroic performance on the circuit when he was alive. We would like to express our heartfelt condolences to the deceased and to his family, friends, and all those involved who believed and hoped for his recovery.”

Haga previously competed in the Italian CIV championship, which has helped produce many riders in the world championship categories. Haga was an Italian CIV racer from 2017 until 2019, before moving back home with the All-Japan Roadrace Championship.

During his first season in the championship, Haga would go on to finish 20th in the points standings, before turning that into 16th the following year. Haga was unable to continue that trend in 2022 however, dropping two spots down to 18th. But 2023 was his best season as he rocketed up to tenth in the championship come the end of the season.

Everyone at Visordown sends our condolences to Haga’s family and friends during this difficult period.

Find all the latest motorcycle news on Visordown.com.