Three spectators killed in France motor rally tragedy

Fatal Rally Mishap in Central France

Three spectators lost their lives Saturday when a 22‑year‑old racer’s modified Peugeot 208 veered off the road during an auto rally near Ambert.

Victims and Drivers

• Two brothers (70 and 60) and a 44‑year‑old man died at the scene.
• A third man airlifted to hospital later succumbed to injuries.
• Driver and 51‑year‑old co‑driver were hospitalized but without life‑threatening wounds.

Reactions and Support

• Local officials described the accident as a “tragedy for the world of racing.”
• Dozens of firefighters and police were dispatched to the crash site.
• A dozen people were taken to a psychological support unit in nearby Saint‑Just.

Investigations and Closures

• Prosecutors opened an investigation seven hours after the crash at 11 am (0900 GMT).
• The rally organisers halted the event at 10 49 am, ordered spectators to leave, and cancelled the award ceremony.
• The road where the accident occurred, described as “almost a straight line,” has been closed.
• The Peugeot 208 will undergo a detailed examination to determine whether spectators were in an authorised area.

Context

The motor rally, organised since 1965, attracted 167 teams for its 32nd edition. In the previous year’s rally, a race marshal died.