Rally driver Samuel Ortiz has tragically been killed while his brother Jordi is fighting for his life after the crash during the Rallye de La Ceramica in Spain
A young rally driver has tragically died in a horrific crash while his brother, who was driving the vehicle in the race, is in intensive care.
The devastating crash unfolded during the Rallye de La Ceramica 2026 in Spain’s Castellon province on Friday as the two rally driver brothers traversed the CV-189 between L’Alcora and Onda as part of the race course. The pair were travelling in a Honda Civic when it came off the track and slammed into a crash barrier.
Samuel Ortiz, 30, was instantly killed in the horror smash while his older brother, Jordi, 33, was raced to hospital in a “very serious condition”.
Organisers immediately suspended the rest of the event following the tragedy, reports The Sun. The Rallye Club Costa Azahar said in a statement: “During the second leg of the Rallye de la Ceramica on Friday, car number 32, crewed by brothers Jordi and Samuel Ortiz, was involved in a serious accident.
“As a result, co-driver Samuel died at the scene, while the driver was evacuated to Castellon General University Hospital in a very critical condition.
“Upon becoming aware of the situation, the Organizing Committee decided to suspend the event as a sign of mourning and respect.
“We would like to express our deepest condolences to Samuel’s family and friends, and wish Jordi a speedy recovery.”
Firefighters had to cut both men from the wreckage, confirming in a statement that one victim died upon impact. They said: “Firefighters have freed the two occupants of the vehicle.
“The first was treated by the event’s medical team and emergency responders.
“The death of the second occupant was confirmed at the scene and, following authorisation from the Civil Guard, firefighters proceeded with the extrication.”
Tributes have been flooding in across the motorsport world following the horrific tragedy.
Jose Ramon Planelles Sanchez wrote: “Samuel Ortiz has died in the Rallye de La Ceramica. RIP.
“Great sadness in our rally world. A great person leaves us, always smiling. We will keep taking photos of you wherever you are.
“We hope for a speedy recovery for his brother Jordi, who is seriously injured in hospital.
“A big hug to his family and friends.”
Villaviciosa Motorsport added: “We mourn the passing of co-driver Samuel Ortiz. R.I.P.
“We send our condolences to all his family and friends – much strength to everyone who knew him.
“And we wish his brother Jordi Ortiz a speedy recovery.
“Our support goes to the organisers – a wise decision to suspend the competition. When a tragedy like this happens nothing else makes sense.”
Rallye Festival Hoznayo also paid tribute, saying: “We would like to express our deepest condolences on the passing of Samuel Ortiz.
“In these very difficult times, we send all our strength and best wishes for a swift and full recovery to his brother Jordi.
“A big hug to all his family, friends and loved ones. We share your grief.
“Rest in peace, Samuel.”
