Dilano Van’t Hoff’s friend announces retirement from racing following the tragic death of the Dutch driver at Spa

Dilano Van't Hoff died in a horrific accident at Spa Francochamps on July 1st, 2023.

Dilano Van't Hoff and Oleksandr Partyshev (Credits: autosports.nl)

Oleksandr Partyshev, a 17-year-old racing talent from Ukraine and close friend of the late Dutch racer Dilano Van’t Hoff, announced his retirement from the motorsport scene through a poignant Instagram post. Partyshev’s decision follows the tragic incident at Spa-Francorchamps on July 1, where Van’t Hoff lost his life during a Formula Regional European Championship (FRECA) race.

In his heartfelt message, Oleksandr Partyshev conveyed the weight of his decision and the profound impact that the untimely loss of his dear friend had on him. He shared, “I regret to announce that I am bringing my career as a driver to a close. This decision weighs heavily upon me, as it represents a significant and poignant step in my life.”

Oleksandr participated in FIA Motorsport Games, the F4 Cup racing for Ukraine and ADAC Formula 4 Germany, and the Italian Formula 4 Championship racing for Jenzer Motorsport in 2022. He also raced at the F4 Spanish Championship for Campos Racing in 2021.

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NEWS | ?? Oleksandr Partyshev has announced his retirement from racing, due to "the unfortunate events involving [his] dear friend Dilano Van't Hoff."

The 17-year-old was engaged in FRECA with KIC Motorsport. He had already missed last weekend at Mugello.#FRECA pic.twitter.com/HGCkNyMzIR
— Feeder Series (@feeder_series) July 12, 2023

He added, “Words cannot express the depth of my gratitude for the remarkable opportunity I was granted as a racing driver for a glorious span of eight years. This journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, and I am profoundly grateful for every single person who has accompanied me on this remarkable odyssey.”

Discover: WATCH: F1 Community unites to honor the Late Dilano Van’t Hoff after tragic accident at Spa claimed the 18-year-old’s life

Dilano Van’t Hoff’s tragedy shook the realm of motorsports

On July 1, 2023, during a Formula Regional European Championship (FRECA) race at Spa-Francorchamps, a tragic accident unfolded, resulting in the loss of 18-year-old Dutch driver Dilano Van’t Hoff. The incident occurred during a restart in wet conditions, with poor visibility caused by spray. Van’t Hoff spun out of control and tragically found himself stationary on the track.

In a devastating turn of events, he was struck at high speed by another car, driven by Adam Fitzgerald of RP Motorsport, at the start of the Kemmel straight. The crash involved multiple cars, exacerbating the severity of the incident and leading to the heartbreaking loss of Van’t Hoff’s life.

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A post shared by Alex Partyshev ?? (@partyshev.1)

The location and nature of the accident served as a poignant reminder of the inherent dangers and risks associated with the world of motorsport, drawing unfortunate parallels to the previous fatal crash of Formula 2 driver Anthoine Hubert at the same circuit in 2019. Drivers have urged the FIA and Stefano Domenicali to look at Spa Francochamps and improve safety.

Partyshev’s decision marks the end of his racing career, but he will forever cherish the memories and experiences gained. The motorsport community mourns the loss of Dilano Van’t Hoff and stands united in support of those affected by this tragic incident. As the racing world bids farewell to Oleksandr Partyshev, it hopes for healing and brighter days ahead in motorsport.