Norick Abe Fatality

Japanese racing phenom Norifumi Abe, 32, died after colliding with a truck making an illegal U-turn while riding a scooter on the street in Kawasaki-city, Japan. Abe spent 13 seasons in world championship racing, making an immediate impact in the 500cc Grand Prix class when making his debut appearance riding as a wild-card entry on a Honda NSR500 in the 1994 Japanese GP. He diced for the lead with Mick Doohan and Kevin Schwantz at the Suzuka track before crashing out near the end of the race.

Abe had an interesting background. His father was a racer, and Norick began riding at just five years old. After leaving high school in 1991, Abe spent time training with Kenny Roberts at his ranch in California, including dirt-tracking. The training obviously paid off, as the 18-year-old Abe went back home and won the 500cc GP All-Japan Championship in 1993 before spending 10 seasons in the 500cc World Championship where he amassed 17 podium positions and three wins. Abe left the MotoGP championship in 2004 and then spent two unsuccessful seasons in World Superbike. He was competing in the All-Japan Superbike championship in 2007 where he was lying third in points.

Comment from Takashi Kajikawa, President, Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

“I am deeply saddened to hear this tragic news. Loved by fans in Japan, Europe and the Americas and throughout Asia, Norifumi Abe was an irreplaceable ambassador of motor sports worldwide. Here in Japan the fans were especially excited to see Abe return to the All Japan circuit after 14 years of international competition, and certainly their sense of loss at his passing is great. We pray that his soul rests in peace and we send our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”

"Killed riding a scooter in traffic. "