A teenage speedway rider is fighting for his life after his bike became entangled with a rival’s and they both ploughed through a barrier at high speed.
Patryk Budniak remains in a medically induced coma in intensive care.
The 19-year-old underwent emergency spinal surgery and is being treated for multiple fractures to his pelvis and lower limbs.
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The horror unfolded during the 12th heat of a National Speedway League contest between the Polish teams Ultrapur Omega Start Gniezno and Śląsk Świętochłowice.
The race took place at the Start Gniezno Stadium in Gniezno, Poland, on Sunday (10 May).
Patryk, riding for the home side, became entangled with rival Leon Szlegiel on the second bend of the first lap.
Their bikes locked together, sending both men crashing into the safety barrier at high speed.
Patryk was catapulted over the fencing, flew several metres through the air, and slammed into a van parked beyond the perimeter as horrified spectators looked on.
A medical helicopter landed on the track within minutes to airlift Patryk to a hospital in the city of Poznań.
He remains in a medically-induced coma with his condition described as serious but stable.
Leon was able to get up and initially walked towards the pits but he later fell on the grass and was taken to hospital for checks.
A club statement confirmed he was “battered and bruised” but didn’t sustain any fractures, as reported by Need To Know.
The match was immediately halted and did not resume.
The Polish police have launched a formal investigation, seizing the track licence, both motorcycles, helmets, racing suits and all stadium CCTV footage.
Police spokesperson Andrzej Borowiak said the material would be analysed before any further decisions are taken.
Start Gniezno have postponed their next home league fixture against Speedway Kraków, originally due on 17 May, until 7 June.
In an emotional statement, the team said: “This is an extremely difficult moment for the entire red-and-black family.
“It is hard to talk about sports emotions when everyone is living the fight of our rider for health.”
“Today we all ride our most important race – for Patryk.”
A public fundraiser has been launched to support the motorcyclist’s treatment and long-term rehabilitation.
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