FORMER speedway world champion Romano Hummel has tragically died at the age of 27.

The Dutchman first made a name for himself in the world of motorsport as a teenager.

Hummel featured for the Berwick Bandits in the 2016 Premier League speedway season.

And he went on to be crowned the Long Track world champion five years later.

The International Motorcycling Federation led the heartwarming tributes to Hummel.

An emotional statement read: “It is with deep sadness that the FIM has learned of the passing of Romano Hummel.

“He was a talented Dutch Long Track and Grass Track rider and one of the most successful riders in international Track Racing, with outstanding results at both European and World Championship level.

“Romano’s talent emerged early – he won the FIM Youth Gold Trophy (125cc) in 2011 and the FIM Long Track Youth World Cup (250cc) in 2013, launching an international career that made him one of the leading figures in Long Track and Grass Track racing.

“In 2016, Romano won his first FIM Long Track of Nations with the Dutch national team, and in 2021 he was crowned FIM Long Track World Champion.

“He also won the FIM Europe Individual Grass Track Championship title three times, in 2022, 2023 and 2026, most recently on August 29, 2026 in Aduard, the Netherlands, winning every race in front of his home crowd.

“With the Dutch team, he added further FIM Long Track of Nations victories in 2023 and 2026, and silver in 2025.

“Romano’s talent, determination and commitment earned him the respect of the international Track Racing community.

“His passing is deeply felt across motorcycle sport, and his remarkable sporting legacy will be remembered.

“The FIM family extends its deepest condolences to Romano’s family, friends, team-mates and the Royal Dutch Motorcyclists Association.”

Chiefs at the FIM Speedway World Championship added: “FIM Speedway Grand Prix is saddened to hear of the passing of Romano Hummel, a hugely successful international track racer.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”

Hummel was part of the Dutch team which raced to glory at the 2023 Team Long Track World Championship.

He also bagged gold at the European Grass Track Championship in 2022 and 2023.