Addu City: An 18-year-old rider is fighting for his life following a tragic accident during a practice session for the ongoing Ehmmenge Drag Competition in Addu City.

Mohamed Ilmu, a young racer from Maradhoo-Feydhoo, lost control of his bike and crashed into a beam of a nearby building, sustaining severe injuries. He was initially treated in Addu before being transferred to Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) in Malé, where he has been on a ventilator since the incident. IGMH has confirmed that his condition remains critical.

Ilmu was unable to compete in the race, which is being organized by the Addu Motorsports Association. While interest in racing and motorsports is growing in the Maldives, the country lacks dedicated facilities and venues for such high-speed competitions, raising concerns about safety.

Authorities have yet to comment on the incident, but the accident has once again highlighted the risks young riders face due to the absence of proper racing infrastructure.