On Friday the Pro.Gi.T Cycling Team announced one of their young riders, Stefano Principale, died in a traffic accident on Thursday near Taranto, Italy, where he was stationed in the Italian Navy.

The amateur cyclist, who just turned 20, lost his life when the motorcycle he was piloting crashed head-on at high speed into an automobile traveling the other direction.

Emergency medics arrived quickly to administer life-saving measures, but were unsuccessful in reviving Principale. A passenger on the motorcycle was also seriously injured in the crash and transported to hospital.

The tragic news shocked Pro.Git.T President Ida Barreca who considered Principale a son via social media:

Life should have a rule that doesn’t allow a parent to witness the loss of their children, but unfortunately, life has something completely different in store for us, leaving us stunned, helpless, and heartbroken.

As a mother and President of the ProGiT Cycling Team, every child is like a son to us; this is a rule that my son, the team’s sports director, has embraced.

I’m writing this message through his hand because I’m not part of the social media generation, but I tearfully asked to post this thought because Giovanni gives me detailed daily updates on the progress of our team and every single child, even those who no longer race, because every single child brings with them those invaluable values that enrich us season after season.

I tearfully hold Stefano’s family close to my heart, along with Stefano and all his memories.

Federciclismo Puglia President Tommaso Depalma also remembered the young rider: “I am devastated, shocked by this news. Stefano was a wonderful guy…Apulian cycling mourns this young friend, prays for him and gathers around his family and the cycling family of the Pro.Gi.T Cycling Team.”

Principale started racing as a teenager in the highly competitive Italian junior ranks on the track and road. Early success afforded him the opportunity to then race in the U23 category prior to beginning a career dedicated to service with the Italian Navy.

Photo Credit: Facebook/Pro.Gi.T.CyclingTeam

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