“Human lives are at risk” - Rider hit by race jury car at Italian National Championships

Letizia Paternoster narrowly avoided a crash after being struck by a race jury car during the Italian National Championships. The 25-year-old rider for Team Liv AlUla Jayco reported the incident on social media, revealing that she was hit from behind while descending.

“Today at the Italian championship an organization car hit me from behind on a descent, causing a spoke and gear to break,” Paternoster wrote. “Thank God I didn’t fall.”

According to her statement, the vehicle involved belonged to the race jury, raising fresh concerns over race convoy safety. “We try to bring competent people into the race because human lives are at risk,” she added.

Paternoster escaped without injury, but the incident damaged her bike and effectively ended her race. The Italian rider has not indicated whether she will pursue action, but her message highlights the risks athletes face from within the race bubble itself.