The cycling world is in deep mourning following the death of 19‑year‑old Samuele Privitera, who suffered fatal injuries after a crash during the first stage of the under‑23 Giro della Valle d’Aosta. The accident occurred on July 16, 2025, during a downhill section some 32 km from the finish line in Pontey, in Italy’s Aosta Valley.
According to local reports and race officials, Privitera’s bike struck an uneven section of pavement—possibly a speed bump or pothole—while he was descending at nearly 70 km/h. He lost control, crashed violently, and reportedly lost his helmet before colliding with a barrier. Emergency medical teams arrived quickly and performed on‑site resuscitation. He was then rushed to Aosta’s Parini Hospital, where he succumbed to head injuries and cardiac arrest hours later.
Privitera represented the development team Hagens Berman Jayco, the feeder squad for WorldTour outfit Jayco‑AlUla. Team manager Axel Merckx, son of cycling legend Eddy Merckx, expressed heartbreak and admiration for the young rider. “He was irreplaceable. His joy, spirit and kindness lit up every room,” Merckx said. “To lose him is devastating beyond words”.
Known for his climbing ability and luminous personality, Privitera had shown promise in races like the Giro Next Gen. He had recently achieved strong results and harbored aspirations of stepping up to the WorldTour. Tributes have been pouring in across the cycling community. The UCI, GreenEDGE Cycling, Wanty‑NIPPO, Israel‑Premier Tech, and others shared their condolences and underscored the urgent need to improve safety protocols in youth and professional races.
Organizers of the Giro della Valle d’Aosta canceled the second stage scheduled for July 17 out of respect. A tribute, including a minute of silence and a neutralized parade at the start of the third stage on July 18, has been planned. Authorities are investigating the crash to determine if road conditions contributed.
The Tour de France peloton also paid tribute today, observing a minute of applause before their Stage 12 in Auch, France. Riders and spectators alike were visibly moved by the loss of a rising star. Tour favorite Tadej Pogačar described the sport as “one of the most dangerous in the world” and expressed sorrow for Privitera’s family.
Privitera’s tragic death returns attention to the perilous nature of fast downhill sections, especially for emerging cyclists. Conversations about road maintenance, protective gear, and course safety procedures are expected to follow as cycling’s leaders evaluate how to prevent such tragedies.
