Tragedy in cycling: 19-year-old Samuele Privitera dies in races

Tragedy in cycling: 19-year-old Samuele Privitera dies in races

In a tragic incident, 19-year-old cyclist Samuele Privitera was fatally accidentally accidental at a youth race in northern Italy. The accident occurred on Wednesday during the first stage of the 61st Giro Ciclistico della Valle d’Aosta - Mont Blanc, as a private fell in Aosta in a departure before the finish. Despite immediate resuscitation measures and transport to the hospital, his life could not be saved. Axel Merckx, son of the cycling legend Eddy Merckx and racing team owner, confirmed the death of the young talent and expressed his condolences to the relatives. The circumstances of the tragic accident are currently being investigated by the authorities, while the second stage planned for Thursday was canceled, as OE24 reports.

The death of Samuele Privitera once again highlights the safety precautions in cycling. In the past, there have always been serious fall accidents, which caused a sensation for both professional and young races. For example, over 20 falls in three weeks was documented at the Tour de France 2021. These incidents led to a protest by the drivers against dangerous racing conditions. Differences in the security standards between races and the increased hazard points on the routes are topics that are discussed again and again, such as radSport-rennrad.de notes.

security debate in cycling

The debates about security in cycling have become particularly loud after the severe fall of Fabio Jakobsen on the Poland tour. In order to increase the safety of the drivers, the UCI has decided on new security protocols and requirements. In the current situation, it is important to mention that in 2020 426 cyclists died in road traffic, an increase of 16.8 percent compared to 2010. However, studies show that cyclists in warning vests had 47 percent less accidents, which underlines the importance of visibility and security.

The discussion about dangerous routes and the responsibility that racing organizations are in view of the latest tragedy by Privitera has once again come into focus. Simon Geschke called for the need for an early review of race tracks by a driver union to reduce the risk of athletes.

In this difficult time, it is important to help Samuele Privitera survivors and to work together to improve security standards in cycling. The tragedy of this accident should not only remain as a painful memory, but also as an impetus for necessary changes. Further information on this difficult incident can also be found on SPIEGEL.