Investigations have been launched after a vehicle competing in Northern Territory’s Finke Desert Race veered off a dirt track and killed a spectator.
The man in his 60s died on impact on Monday about 35km from the start/finish line near Alice Springs.
Another male spectator in his 50s was seriously injured and was expected to be flown to Royal Adelaide Hospital on Tuesday.
The area around the crash site was declared a crime scene, with NT police investigating the cause of the incident.
Motorsport Australia and Finke Desert Race say the two organisations will also investigate the crash and cooperate with the police.
“The Finke Desert Race mourns the loss of a spectator yesterday after a tragic incident on the track,” the race committee said in a statement on Tuesday.
“We extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the family, friends and all those who have been impacted,” race president Antony Yoffa said.
“We appreciate the efforts of all officials and volunteers across the weekend and commend the patience and understanding of competitors and spectators during this particularly difficult time.”
The female navigator of the vehicle, also in her 50s, received minor injuries and was taken to Alice Springs Hospital.
The Tatts Finke Desert Race is an off-road multi-terrain two-day race for bikes, cars, buggies and quad bikes through desert country from Alice Springs to Aputula/Finke.
Held annually on the Queen’s Birthday long weekend in June, it’s one of the biggest annual sporting events in the NT.
The race is one of the most difficult off-road remote courses in the world.