Two motorcycle riders have been killed as a result of a multi bike crash in a World Superbike Championship support race at Laguna Seca.

Spanish riders Bernat Martinez and Daniel Rivas Fernandez were involved in an incident at the start of Sunday’s second MotoAmerica Superbike/Superstock 1000 encounter at the Californian circuit.

Martinez (35) was transported by ambulance to Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula in Monterey, while Rivas Fernandez (27) was airlifted to Natividad Medical Center in Salinas.

Both riders succumbed to their injuries at hospital.

“I really don’t have any words to describe what we all feel,” said MotoAmerica president Wayne Rainey.

“First and foremost, is the loss to the families and loved ones. Our sincere condolences goes out to each and every one of them as well as the MotoAmerica family. They are in our thoughts and prayers.”

“We are deeply saddened to learn the news of the passing of Bernat Martinez and Daniel Rivas,” said Gill Campbell, CEO and general manager of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

“Our prayers and hearts go out to their families and teams.”