Australian F1H2O driver Damon Cohen has been transferred to a new hospital in the UAE where surgeons are planning to perform spinal surgery on Christmas Eve following his qualifying accident at the Road to Sharjah–Grand Prix of Sharjah.
Cohen suffered a double barrel roll at turn one with just 12 seconds remaining in the Q1 session on Saturday morning, forcing him to withdraw from the remainder of the weekend.
Multiple vertebrae fractures confirmed
The Sydney-based driver has been transferred to a different hospital where a new team of surgeons have assessed his injuries. The medical team have expressed significant concern about Cohen’s spine, which has sustained multiple vertebrae fractures with one vertebra completely shattered, causing fragments to move into the spinal canal.
The surgeons have indicated there is a possibility Cohen will require a second surgery, though they are hoping for just one operation pending the results of a re-scan.
Writing on the Cohen Bros Racing Facebook page, the family said:
We are overwhelmed by the amount of support and love shown around the world for Damon. Damon is aware of the comments and messages of support, but he is struggling, so he isn’t in a condition to be able to get back to you all, but please be assured he is aware and appreciates everyone’s kind words and thoughts.
Fundraising campaign launched
The St George Power Boat Club has launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Cohen and his family with significant medical expenses, travel costs and recovery needs whilst they remain far from home.
The club said:
Damon Cohen, a valued member of St George Power Boat Club, was involved in a serious boat accident in qualifying at the F1H2O Grand Prix of Sharjah. This unexpected event has left them facing significant medical expenses, travel costs, and recovery needs far from home.
Damon has always been someone who shows up for others—through their time, dedication, and positive spirit within our club. Now, they need our help. While they focus on healing, we’re hoping to ease the financial burden on Damon and their family during this incredibly difficult time.
How to help
The St George Power Boat Club fundraising campaign can be found at gofundme.com/f/damon-cohens-recovery.
The club emphasised that contributions of any size will make a meaningful difference:
Any contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this page to help spread the word. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support as we stand together for Damon.
Family gratitude
Cohen’s family expressed gratitude to the St George Power Boat Club and Australian Formula Powerboat Grandprix for arranging the fundraising campaign.
They said:
We would like to acknowledge the St. George Power Boat Club and Australian Formula Powerboat Grandprix for arranging a GoFundMe page. This was not expected but it has taken a weight off the family’s shoulders knowing we have some assistance to put towards the medical costs. Thank you to everyone who has donated or who offered to create a fund page – it is truly appreciated.
Special thanks were extended to Ahmed Al-Hosani of Sharjah International Marine Sports Club:
To Ahmed Al Hosani of Sharjah International Marine Sports Club – thank you for going above and beyond to ensure Damon has the best possible care. Your guidance and assistance in navigating this overwhelming situation is an amazing act of kindness.
Support Damon Cohen’s Recovery
John Moore’s involvement in powerboat racing began in 1981 when he competed in his first offshore powerboat race. After a career as a Financial Futures broker in the City of London, specialising in UK interest rate markets, he became actively involved in event organisation and powerboat racing journalism.
He served as Event Director for the Cowes–Torquay–Cowes races between 2010 and 2013. In 2016, he launched Powerboat Racing World, a digital platform providing global powerboat racing news and insights. The following year, he co-founded UKOPRA, helping to rejuvenate offshore racing in the United Kingdom. He sold Powerboat Racing World in late 2021 and remained actively involved with UKOPRA until 2025.
In 2025, he established Powerboat News, returning to independent journalism with a focus on neutral and comprehensive coverage of the sport.
