Veteran TT Competitor Facing Long Recovery After Brandish Incident
Maria Costello MBE remains in hospital recovering from extensive injuries sustained during a qualifying crash at the 2026 Isle of Man TT, with updates revealing the highly respected racer is currently paralysed from the chest down as a result of spinal injuries suffered in the accident.
The 52-year-old competitor was involved in a serious incident at Brandish during Tuesday evening’s qualifying session on 26 May. Following immediate medical treatment at the scene, Costello was airlifted to Noble’s Hospital on the Isle of Man before later being transferred to the specialist spinal unit at Aintree University Hospital in Liverpool for further treatment.
Organisers initially described her condition as “serious but stable”, but a subsequent update shared through a fundraising page organised on her behalf has highlighted the full extent of the injuries sustained in the crash.
Extensive Injuries Revealed
Multiple Fractures and Severe Spinal Trauma
According to information released through the fundraising campaign, Costello suffered a number of life-threatening and life-changing injuries in the accident.
Most significantly, she sustained fractures to the T5 and T6 vertebrae in her spine and is currently paralysed from the T5/T6 level down.
Medical updates also confirmed a lengthy list of additional injuries including:
- Fractured T5 and T6 vertebrae
- Broken arm
- Multiple broken ribs
- Grade four liver laceration
- Broken sternum
- Broken nose
- Fractured eye socket
- Facial lacerations between the eyes
The severity of the injuries means Costello faces a prolonged period of treatment, rehabilitation and assessment as medical specialists continue to evaluate her long-term recovery prospects.
While no official prognosis has been released regarding the spinal injuries, support from across the motorcycle racing community has poured in since the extent of her condition became known.
Sidecar Passenger Also Injured
Shaun Parker Receiving Treatment on the Isle of Man
The crash also left sidecar passenger Shaun Parker injured.
Parker remains under medical care at Noble’s Hospital and is being treated for injuries including trauma to his chest, arms, legs and face.
Although his injuries are understood to be serious, reports indicate they are not considered life-threatening.
Both riders were competing as part of the sidecar class during the TT qualifying programme when the incident occurred.
A Pioneer of Motorcycle Racing
Costello’s Legacy Extends Far Beyond Results
Maria Costello is widely regarded as one of the most influential female competitors in the history of motorcycle road racing.
Over a career spanning more than three decades, she has broken barriers and inspired countless riders entering the sport.
Her achievements include becoming the fastest woman ever to lap the Isle of Man TT course at the time of her record-setting performances and competing successfully across multiple disciplines including short-circuit racing, endurance competition and road racing.
In recognition of her contribution to motorsport and her role in promoting opportunities for women within motorcycle racing, she was awarded an MBE.
Costello has long been respected not only for her achievements on track but also for her advocacy work, mentoring younger competitors and promoting inclusivity within the sport.
Special Anniversary Appearance at the TT
Celebrating Three Decades Since Mountain Course Debut
This year’s event held particular significance for Costello.
The 2026 Isle of Man TT marked 30 years since her first appearance on the famous Mountain Course, having made her debut on the island during the 1996 Manx Grand Prix.
Since then, she has become one of the most recognisable and respected figures associated with road racing, regularly competing in both solo and sidecar classes.
Her continued participation at the highest level of the sport into her fifties has earned admiration throughout the paddock.
Many competitors have spoken openly in recent days about Costello’s determination, professionalism and passion for racing, qualities that have made her one of the sport’s most enduring personalities.
Crash Occurred During Final Qualifying Lap
Incident Happened at High-Speed Brandish Section
The accident occurred at Brandish, one of the most demanding sections of the 37.73-mile Mountain Course.
Located approximately two miles from the start-finish line, the corner forms part of a fast and technically challenging sequence that riders encounter shortly after leaving Douglas.
The crash happened during the closing stages of the evening qualifying session as competitors completed their final laps before returning to the paddock.
Emergency medical teams responded immediately before Costello was transported by air ambulance for specialist treatment.
An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remains ongoing.
Racing Community Rallies Around Costello
Messages of Support Arrive From Across Motorsport
Since news of Costello’s injuries emerged, tributes and messages of support have flooded social media from fellow riders, teams, organisers and fans from around the world.
The Isle of Man TT community has a long history of rallying behind injured competitors, and the response to Costello’s accident has reflected the immense respect she commands throughout the sport.
Many riders competing during this year’s TT have publicly expressed their support, while fundraising efforts have already begun to assist with the considerable medical and rehabilitation costs that are likely to follow.
As Costello begins what is expected to be a lengthy recovery journey, the thoughts of the entire motorcycle racing community remain with both her and Shaun Parker, as well as their families and support teams during an exceptionally difficult time.
To help Maria please look below :
https://www.gofundme.com/f/maria-costello-mbe-road-to-recovery
