Powerboat race season cancelled after racer's death

A powerboat race series where a racer died will not return for 2026, a motor boat club has announced.

Brett Duncan, 51, was fatally injured during a race after crashing with a stationary houseboat at Oulton Broad in Suffolk last July.

Lowestoft & Oulton Broad Motor Boat Club (LOBMBC) previously suspended races due to investigations and announced in September the 2025 race season was over.

On Friday, LOBMBC said investigations had concluded, but as it was still waiting for permission for on-water activities to recommence, it had "become clear that there is no realistic prospect of organising a meaningful racing season during 2026".

The club said it had cooperated fully with East Suffolk Council and the Broads Authority (BA) while investigations were completed.

Suffolk Police and the Circuit Powerboat Association had also investigated.

The Marine Accident Investigation Branch previously told the BBC while it had launched an inquiry, it was no longer investigating as both vessels involved were not engaged in a commercial activity.

"We are pleased that these investigations have now concluded," LOBMBC said.

"The club is not aware of any objections from these organisations to racing resuming on Oulton Broad.

"However, despite our continued engagement and recent discussions, East Suffolk Council/BA have not yet granted permission for on-water activities to recommence.

"Having now reached July, and following the latest information received this week from the Coroner's Office, it has become clear that there is no realistic prospect of organising a meaningful racing season during 2026."

The club stressed the decision "should not be interpreted as the end of powerboat racing at Oulton Broad" and it would work with officials to "demonstrate that racing can continue within the robust safety framework that has governed the sport for many years".

Duncan's funeral took place in Oulton Broad in September, with his hearse taken to Nicholas Everitt Park "for a final lap of the park", his family said at the time.

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