The Murcian Cycling Federation (FRM) announced the tragic death of 18 year-old Juan Pujalte Martinez, an up-and-coming amateur road cyclist who just joined Valverde Team-Ricardo Fuentes, a Spanish U23 development team headed by former world champion Alejandro Valverde.

“With all the pain in our hearts, we have to report the accidental death of Juan Pujalte Martinez, member of the Murcian Cycling Federation. The great cycling family will miss you,” FRM posted on X-Twitter.

Valverde Team-Ricardo Fuentes also released a statement: “Broken by pain, we regret to confirm the death of our colleague Juan Pujalte, member of Valverde Team-Ricardo Fuentes’ under-23 team. Juan’s smile, his happiness and his passion for life and cycling will be in our hearts every day. Our thoughts are with your family, friends and your team-mates. Rest in peace, Juan.” 

He died due to severe head and internal injuries received in an accident while training in Escombreras on Thursday 29 February.

As a junior rider last year Pujalte won Criterium Lorca and finished 12th in the highly competitive Spanish Road Junior National Championships. 

Photo Credit: FedCiciclismoRM

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