Youthful Cycling Prodigy, 19 Years Old, Meets Tragic End in High-Speed Crash During Race: Probe Initiated to Determine Cause of Helmet Loss Leading to Gate Collision on Dangerous Descent
In a heartbreaking turn of events, the cycling community is mourning the loss of 19-year-old Samuele Privitera, who passed away following a tragic accident during the first stage of the Giro della Valle d'Aosta.
The incident occurred 35 kilometres from the end of the race, while Privitera was descending at approximately 43 miles per hour. According to investigations, Privitera, who was part of the Hagens Berman Jayco team, lost control of his bike after hitting a bump on the descent, causing him to crash at high speed. During the fall, his helmet came off, and he struck his head violently against a gate, resulting in severe head trauma and cardiac arrest.
Prompt medical assistance and resuscitation efforts were initiated at the scene, and Privitera was transported to Parini Hospital in Aosta. Despite these efforts, he tragically succumbed to his injuries on the evening of July 16, 2025.
The exact circumstances of the crash are still under investigation by public safety authorities, but it is established that the loss of helmet and head impact were central to the fatal outcome. Another cyclist involved in the accident suffered a broken collarbone. In light of this tragedy, the second stage of the race was cancelled out of respect.
The loss of Privitera, who was referred to as the "life and personality" of the Hagens Berman Jayco team, has deeply affected the Italian cycling community. Axel Merckx, the owner and team manager of Hagens Berman Jayco, paid tribute to Privitera, expressing gratitude for every moment shared with him and the joy he brought to the team. Merckx stated that Privitera's loss is "devastating beyond words."
The International Cycling Union (UCI) joined tributes for Privitera, expressing condolences for his family, friends, teammates, and supporters. Notable figures in the cycling world, such as Sir Bradley Wiggins and Tadej Pogacar, also offered their condolences following the tragedy.
In memory of Privitera, the initial section of the second stage will be neutralized, and teams will have the option to continue in the race or withdraw following the tragedy. The cycling community continues to rally around Privitera's family and friends, asking that they be kept in thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
[1] Privitera's loss is felt across the cycling community, according to the UCI. [2] The UCI expressed condolences for Privitera's family, friends, teammates, and supporters. [3] Privitera was referred to as the "life and personality" of the Hagens Berman Jayco team. [4] Axel Merckx, the owner and team manager of Hagens Berman Jayco, paid tribute to Privitera. [5] Merckx expressed gratitude for every moment shared with Privitera and the joy he brought to the team. [6] An investigation has been launched into the circumstances around the crash. [7] Sir Bradley Wiggins and Tadej Pogacar are among those offering condolences following the tragedy. [8] Samuele Privitera, a 19-year-old cyclist, died after a crash during the first stage of the Giro della Valle d'Aosta. [9] Privitera was resuscitated at the scene and taken to Parini Hospital in Aosta, but he passed away on Wednesday evening. [10] The second stage of the Giro della Valle d'Aosta has been cancelled. [11] Privitera suffered a severe head injury after hitting a gate in the fall, which led to a cardiac arrest. [12] Privitera lost his helmet before hitting the gate.
The UCI expressed their condolences not just for Samuele Privitera, but also for his family, friends, teammates, and supporters.
The tragic loss of Samuele Privitera, the "life and personality" of the Hagens Berman Jayco team, has deeply affected the Italian cycling community.
