The high-octane world of professional cliff diving was plunged into mourning this weekend following a fatal accident at the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series in Italy. A 25-year-old British diver, whose identity has not yet been formally released, succumbed to injuries sustained during a practice dive in the picturesque coastal town of Polignano a Mare.
The incident occurred on Saturday as athletes were preparing for the competition's fourth stop of the season. According to initial reports from local authorities and event organisers, the diver hit the water at an incorrect angle during the practice session. Despite the immediate intervention of on-site medical teams and a rapid transfer to a local hospital, the injuries proved fatal.
Event Immediately Suspended
In a swift response to the tragedy, Red Bull made the decision to immediately cancel the remainder of the event. A statement released by the organisation expressed profound sorrow, extending their deepest sympathies to the athlete's family, friends, and teammates.
'We are deeply saddened to confirm the death of a cliff diver in Polignano a Mare,' the statement read. 'The safety of our athletes is our top priority, and we are working closely with the local authorities to support their investigation into this devastating incident.'
A Tight-Knit Community in Shock
The cliff diving community is renowned for its camaraderie, and news of the death has sent shockwaves through its ranks. Fellow competitors and fans have taken to social media to express their grief and pay tribute to a talented athlete whose life was cut tragically short.
Polignano a Mare, with its iconic natural cove and crystal-clear waters, is a famed and typically idyllic location on the cliff diving circuit. This tragedy serves as a stark and sombre reminder of the immense risks these elite athletes take every time they leap from platforms that can exceed 27 metres in height—a testament to their incredible skill and courage.
An investigation into the precise circumstances surrounding the accident is now underway, led by Italian law enforcement.
