Mammoth Lakes, CA — The Motocross World Mourns the Tragic Loss of Rising Star Aidan Zingg, 16
Mammoth Lakes, CA — The motocross community is reeling from the devastating loss of Aidan Zingg, a 16-year-old racing prodigy from Washington, who tragically passed away following a crash during the Mammoth Mountain Motocross event in Mammoth Lakes, California. The accident occurred during a routine race at the prestigious annual competition, leaving fellow riders, fans, and the larger motorsports world in shock.
Aidan was more than just a rising star in motocross—he was a young man with an unmatched passion for racing, a vibrant personality, and a work ethic that belied his age. Known for his fearless riding style and calm confidence on the track, he had become a standout in amateur circuits and was widely seen as a future contender at the professional level. His sudden passing has left a deep void not only in the sport but in the lives of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Born and raised in Washington, Aidan began riding dirt bikes before he was even in kindergarten. What started as weekend fun quickly turned into a disciplined pursuit. Backed by a supportive family and a tight-knit racing community, Aidan climbed the ranks of amateur motocross with speed and determination, winning numerous events and earning the respect of racers far older and more experienced.
“He lived for this,” said one close family friend. “Motocross wasn’t just a hobby for Aidan—it was who he was. He dreamed big and chased that dream every day with his helmet on and his heart in it.”
At Mammoth Mountain, one of the most iconic events in amateur motocross, Aidan was doing what he loved—competing, pushing boundaries, and representing the next generation of motocross excellence. The tragic incident occurred during a high-speed section of the course. Despite immediate medical attention and transport to a nearby hospital, Aidan succumbed to his injuries.
Tributes have poured in from across the country, including messages from top motocross athletes, organizations, and fans. Social media has been flooded with photos of Aidan, race highlights, and words of remembrance using the hashtag #RideForAidan.
“He was always the first to help another rider and the last to leave the track,” wrote one fellow racer. “We lost more than a champion—we lost a brother.”
Race organizers and sponsors have extended their condolences to the Zingg family and are working on ways to honor Aidan’s memory. Plans are already underway for a tribute lap and scholarship fund in his name, designed to support other young riders who share Aidan’s dream.
Aidan is survived by his parents, younger siblings, and a community that loved and believed in him deeply. As his family navigates this heartbreaking loss, they ask for privacy and prayers, but also encourage the motocross world to keep his legacy alive by riding with the same joy and courage that Aidan brought to every start gate.
Aidan Zingg may have had just 16 years on this earth, but in that time, he ignited passion, inspired excellence, and showed what it means to chase greatness with humility and heart.
Rest in peace, #AidanZingg. You will always be 77 in the hearts of those who ride in your honor.