Maverick Vinales will miss this weekend’s US Grand Prix in Austin following the death of his cousin last Saturday.
Dean Berta Vinales, 15, was involved in a multi-rider collision during Race 1 of the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship – a support class to the World Superbike Series – in Jerez, Spain.
He later succumbed to his injuries after initially being treated by the circuit’s medical staff.
A minutes silence for the young Spaniard was held on the track in Jerez the following day, at which at emotional Maverick attended.
The 26-year-old also paid tribute to his cousin on social media, writing: “There are no words for this moment, it’s been a hard blow to our family. Sending you a huge kiss wherever you are.”
Understandably still reeling, the Spaniard, who joined Aprilia two races ago after leaving Yamaha midseason, has not travelled to the US, instead staying with his family in Europe.
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