World champion Moto2 mechanic tragically dies in road traffic accident

The Intact GP Moto2 team has announced the tragic death of one of its mechanics, Roberto Lunadei, who was killed in a road traffic accident last week.

The 42-year-old was a former racer himself in Italy’s CIV series before switching his hand to being a mechanic in motorcycle racing.

His career took him through the Supersport World Championship before he moved to the MotoGP paddock.

In Moto2, he was part of the Italtrans Racing team that won the 2020 world title with current Tech3 KTM MotoGP rider Enea Bastianini.

Latterly, ‘Luna’, as he became known, worked with race winner Senna Agius at the Intact GP team, joining the squad in 2024.

The Intact GP team posted a heartfelt tribute on its social media channels following news of Lunadei’s death.

“We are heartbroken,” the post began.

“We can't and don't want to believe that a beloved member of our Intact GP family has been taken from us far too soon.

“Roberto Lunadei, or as we called him 'Roby' or 'Luna', joined our team in 2024, and we very quickly fell in love with his kind soul.

“He was not only an exceptional mechanic, but also a person with an incredibly big heart. With his humour and positive energy, he made us laugh and brought people together.

“The void he leaves behind is immeasurable, and he will be deeply missed by all of us.

“Our thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. We wish them strength and comfort during this incredibly difficult time.

“Rest in peace, Roby. You will forever remain a part of the Intact GP family.”

The Italtrans team also posted a message of condolence on its social media channels.

“There are moments when words are hard to find,” the team said.

“Today is one of those, because following a serious accident, we find ourselves saying goodbye prematurely and with great sadness to Roberto Lunadei, known to all of us as "Luna ."

“We shared years of work, passion, and life in the paddock with him.

“He experienced important moments in our garage, such as the Moto2 world title we won together in 2020.

“He was a special friend and colleague, always with a smile.

“The entire Italtrans Racing Team family extends its heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Goodbye Luna. We will not forget you.”