Juan Pujalte, an 18-year-old cyclist from the 'Valverde Team', tragically passed away this Thursday after being involved in a training accident near Escombreras, in Cartagena, Spain, as reported by the Cycling Federation of the Region of Murcia (FCRM).
The Federation expressed their sorrow, stating, "With all the pain in our heart, we must inform about the death of Juan Pujalte Martínez, a member of the Murcian cycling team. The great cycling family will miss you," showcasing the impact of his loss on the community.
Pujalte, originally from San Pedro del Pinatar, was born on April 22, 2005, and was a part of the elite and under-23 squad of the Valverde Team Ricardo Fuentes.
He joined this team at the end of last year, coming from Esetec-Salazones-Salazones Ricardo Fuentes.
The young athlete suffered injuries to his spleen and kidney, along with a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding as a result of the accident, the causes of which are still under investigation.
His death has cast a shadow over the sports community in Murcia and cut short the promising career of an athlete who, despite his young age, was on the verge of turning professional.
Juan Pujalte competed in his first professional race on February 17th, finishing in 134th place in the 125-kilometer-long 'Memorial Sanroma' stage.
