The amateur cycling community in Bahrain is mourning the deaths of two amateur riders killed by a car during an early morning group ride on Friday 20 March 2026.
Philippine nationals Francisco “Franz” Abatayo Delostrico, 62, and Mario Valdez, 47, were riding with fellow members of the Laspag Cycling Group along Zallaq Highway in Bahrain when a vehicle driving at high speed struck them from behind. Delostrico and Valdez sustained fatal injuries. Two other riders were thrown from their bikes by the force of the impact but survived.
Both men were longstanding members of the Filipino expatriate community in Bahrain. Delostrico worked as a mechanic; Valdez as a private chauffeur. Friends described them as enthusiastic and dedicated cyclists, who eagerly looked forward to joining the early morning club rides each week.
While authorities continue to investigate the tragedy, the incident has reignited concerns about road safety for cyclists in the Gulf region. Where fast, open highways are shared by motorists and cycling groups who ride in the cooler early hours.
Advocates within the expatriate cycling community are calling on authorities for stricter enforcement of road-sharing laws and greater physical protection for cyclists on high-speed routes.
For the broader amateur cycling world, tragedies like this are a sobering reminder that the risks facing cyclists extend far beyond fatigue, terrain and weather. Delostrico and Valdez were simply riding — together, in the early light, doing what they loved with friends.
Rest in peace, Franz and Mario.
Photo Credit: Facebook/Laspag-Cycling-Group
© 2026 Copyright Gran Fondo Daily News – All Rights Reserved