Targa Tasmania downgraded to tour status after competitor death

The 2022 Targa Tasmania road rally has been downgraded to non-competitive status after the death of a participant on Wednesday.

At around 3:30pm yesterday, the competitor's vehicle left the road and crashed over an embankment on Olivers Road, Mount Roland, causing fatal injuries to the 59-year-old male driver from Brisbane, while his co-driver – understood to be the man's wife – received non-life threatening injuries.

Organisers of the event announced last night the remaining stages would be held as a tour, with competitors willing to complete the rally having to obey the signposted speed limit for the rest of the event.

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Targa CEO Mark Perry said the decision was difficult to make but ultimately the correct one, while passing his condolonences to those affected by the tragedy.

"It has been another tough day for all our Targa community and we offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends so impacted by this tragedy – their loss is immense and we feel their pain. This is a very sad time,” said Perry.

“The change to downgrade the event to touring only was a difficult one for all of us to make but one that was necessary in the current circumstances as we work through this difficult time.

“So much has been done to make this sport safer since our event 12 months ago but we have still lost a member of the Targa family, and we all need time to further reflect.”

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Motorsport Australia – the sport's governing body – extended its sympathies while supporting both Targa and Tasmanian Police with the ongoing investigations.

“On behalf of everyone at Motorsport Australia, we offer our sympathies to those impacted by this tragedy,” said Director of Motorsport Michael Smith.

“We are now working closely with the Tasmanian Police and emergency services, along with Targa event organisers as the investigation into the incident begins.

“We will continue to offer our support to the entire Targa community, including our officials and competitors.”

Yesterday's fatality came after three competitors died during the running of last year's event, with the trio of deaths triggering a tribunal of motorsport experts to put forth 23 recommendations for future rallies.