Daniel Cracknell, a 20-year-old prototype and test apprentice at the Williams Formula One team, tragically passed away on November 13, 2020, following a road traffic accident. The incident occurred on November 5 on the B4494, the road linking Wantage to Newbury. Mr. Cracknell was riding his motorcycle when it tipped over onto its side and collided with a campervan on a bend. The accident was reported at approximately 1:37 pm, with emergency services arriving shortly after, but Mr. Cracknell succumbed to a traumatic brain injury eight days later.
An inquest into the incident revealed that Mr. Cracknell was likely traveling above the 50mph speed limit; however, his exact speed could not be determined. The coroner recorded the cause of death as a “road traffic collision.” Evidence presented during the inquest noted that the motorcycle overtook another vehicle just before the bend, ultimately tipping over onto its side and heading toward the oncoming campervan. Although the campervan driver attempted to avoid a crash, the two vehicles collided. Despite the minimal damage to the vehicles, Mr. Cracknell sustained fatal injuries. His girlfriend, a passenger on the motorcycle, also suffered serious injuries in the accident, which took place near the intersection of the B4494 and the Ridgeway bridlepath. Witness testimony described the road as damp, though weather conditions were otherwise clear.
Mr. Cracknell was a former student of Prince Henry’s High School in Evesham, where he was remembered fondly as a “wonderful student.” The school community expressed deep sorrow at the news of his passing.
Williams Racing, where Mr. Cracknell was an integral part of the future talent program, described his death as a tragic loss. The initiative offers apprenticeships in disciplines like engineering, design, and manufacturing, cultivating promising talent for the Formula One industry. The team extended their deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues, recognizing his contributions and potential.
Daniel Cracknell’s passing is a sobering reminder of the importance of road safety and adherence to speed regulations. His death has left an indelible mark not only on those who knew him but also on the broader racing community.
