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.