Aussie motorsport mourns talented racer who died aged just 13: ‘Words cannot explain how much this hurts’

The Australian motorsport community is mourning the death of promising kart racer Joseph Bianchini.

Aged just 13, the youngster’s health deteriorated on August 16 and he was then flown to the Sydney Children’s Hospital from Griffith, in the northern Riverina region of western NSW.

Karting Australia confirmed the teenager tragically died on Monday.

‘It is with great sadness that Karting Australia shares the news of the passing of NSW junior driver Joseph Bianchini,’ a statement read.

‘Joseph was a familiar and much-loved young competitor in our sport, racing in the Cadet and Junior categories across the country. 

‘His energy, passion and friendly nature touched many within the karting community.

The Australian motorsport community is mourning the death of promising kart racer Joseph Bianchini aged just 13

Former karting champion and Super2 driver Matt McLean was devastated by the news, and took to Facebook to celebrate the life of Bianchini in a moving tribute post

‘On behalf of everyone at Karting Australia, and the broader karting community, we send our heartfelt condolences to Adrian, Maria and Allegra along with the extended Bianchini family and friends during this very difficult time.’

Sadly, it is the second tragedy for his family and the Griffith Kart Club, after Bianchini’s uncle — also named Joseph — died aged 15 in a 2003 car accident.

Former karting champion and Super2 driver Matt McLean was devastated by the news, and took to Facebook to celebrate the life of Bianchini.

‘My little Joseph. Spending your last few days by your side up until your final moments was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do,’ his post read.

‘Words cannot explain how much this hurts, and I just thank you so much for always demonstrating the importance of looking out for those around you with complete and utter selflessness. 

‘This has left a crater in my heart, but I feel far more complete having had you in our lives even though for such a short time. 

‘I just miss you so much already. I’m so proud of the young man you had become, and making you proud has always been, and will remain, a priority of mine. 

‘Such a gifted boy taken too soon. I love you Coyote, fly high.’

Wagga & District Kart Racing Club labelled the youngster ‘truly honourable’ and declared his memory ‘will forever live on’

Wagga & District Kart Racing Club were equally rocked by the news.

‘We send our sincere condolences to the Bianchini family and members of Griffith Kart Club during this tough time. You are all in our thoughts and prayers,’ the club said.

‘We will miss Joseph’s bubbly and cheeky personality, his sportsmanship and fairness on and off the track.

‘The young man he was becoming was truly honourable and selfless. He was always offer encouragement to his fellow karters and would lend a hand to anyone who crossed his path.

‘Your memory will forever live on.’