Debora Silvestri rushed to hospital after dramatic crash during Milan-Sanremo
Italian cyclist Debora Silvestri was rushed to hospital this afternoon following a horrifying incident during the women’s Milan-Sanremo race, reports BritPanorama.
The 27-year-old was attempting to avoid a pile-up on the descent of the famous Cipressa climb when she was catapulted over a guardrail. Television footage captured the moment as Silvestri landed head-first on a slip road below, having plummeted what appeared to be at least 10 feet.
The Laboral Kutxa rider lay motionless after the impact, prompting gasps from commentators covering the 156km one-day classic live on Eurosport. Multiple competitors were caught up in the initial collision on the steep downhill corner, creating chaos among the racers.
Her team swiftly provided an update on her condition following the frightening scenes. Laboral Kutxa stated, “Debora Silvestri has suffered a fall on the Cipressa descent. She is conscious and on her way to the hospital to receive care.” They assured that more information on her condition would follow in the coming hours.
The Spanish-based squad, which Silvestri has represented since 2023, confirmed the Italian was alert despite the severity of the crash. Helicopter cameras broadcasting the race quickly panned away from the stricken rider after capturing the initial impact, as medical teams rushed to her aid.
Belgian star Lotte Kopecky claimed victory in the race, holding off Switzerland’s Noemi Ruegg in a sprint finish along the Via Roma, with Italy’s Eleonora Gasparrini completing the podium. However, celebrations were muted given the circumstances surrounding Silvestri’s condition. “I hope everyone is OK,” said Kopecky after crossing the line.
As news of Silvestri’s hospitalisation emerged, the men’s edition of the prestigious Monument race was already underway. Footage of the crash spread rapidly across social media, with viewers expressing horror at what they had witnessed. One spectator wrote online: “That was brutal to witness, she didn’t move.” Another described it as “one of the most terrible crashes I have witnessed.”
The incident highlights the inherent risks involved in competitive cycling, particularly during high-stakes races like Milan-Sanremo, where speed and strategy intertwine at every turn, serving as a stark reminder of how quickly sport can take a dangerous turn.
