A 40-year-old British cyclist passed away after an incident during the Mallorca 312 amateur road race on the island. Among the participants in the event was former Chelsea and Real Madrid football star, Eden Hazard, who was reportedly shocked by the tragedy.
The unfortunate event took place on Saturday morning as the cyclist competed in the popular endurance race, which circles Majorca and concludes in Playa de Muro.
Reports indicate the cyclist fell from his bike and subsequently suffered a cardiac arrest on the route between Esporles and Valldemossa. Emergency services responded quickly, attempting to resuscitate him at the scene before transporting him by ambulance towards Palma, the island`s capital.
Sadly, the rider did not survive and died before reaching the nearby Rotger Clinic. The Civil Guard has initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances leading to the accident.
The organisers of the Mallorca 312 race released a statement expressing their profound sadness regarding the death. It said:
“Mallorca 312 OK Mobility deeply regrets the death of a participant during the celebration of the event after suffering a fall. We want to offer our most sincere condolences to the rider’s family and loved ones. We have already made ourselves available to offer them all the support they need at these difficult moments. Rest in peace.”
News of the death prompted messages of sorrow from cycling enthusiasts and participants on social media.
Neil Sibley commented: “Such sad and horrible news on what should be such an enjoyable day.”
David Wilkins added: “Very sad news. RIP. As someone who had completed it for the last two years, this news is close to my heart.”
Brazilian participant Rodrigo Carrera shared: “I passed when they were doing CPR. Sad. Condolences to family and friends.”
Paul Renton also wrote: “So sad. Thoughts and prayers go to the family.”
This incident is unfortunately not the first cycling tragedy on Majorca this year. Earlier this month, a 59-year-old Irish tourist died after reportedly collapsing off his bike in Pollensa.
Previous fatalities include Scot Graeme McGilvray, 49, who died in 2016 after being hit by a lorry, and a separate incident in September 2023 where a 45-year-old British cyclist was seriously injured after being struck by a lorry and falling significantly down an embankment.
Meanwhile, Eden Hazard, who retired from professional football in October 2023 at the age of 33 (note: age 34 in source might be slight discrepancy or future date), successfully completed the race. Upon finishing, he shared his experience:
“Very hard and my legs are really hurting but it was very good. The first part was okay but the last 25 kilometres were impossible. I have to train a little more and lose a little bit of weight and then it will be perfect.”
