Tragedy struck during the Matsusaka Keirin race on Saturday as cyclist Toshiaki Fushimi passed away following a devastating crash, the Japan Keirin Association has confirmed.
Fushimi was 50 years old at the time of his unfortunate passing.
The revered former Olympic silver medalist faced a critical moment during the race when he attempted to steer clear of a collision, opting to head toward the outer barrier.
In a desperate effort to avoid the crash, he swerved but tragically collided with the fence during the final lap, creating a grim and unsettling scene.
Fushimi suffered serious injuries and tragically died at 10:15 a.m. on Sunday morning.
The Japanese cycling legend won an Olympic silver medal for his home country in the men’s team sprint event in Athens in the 2004 Games. He did it alongside Masaki Inoue and Tomohiro Nagatsuka.
He went on to win multiple Keirin Grand Prix titles, achieving 619 wins.
The cycling community mourned the loss of Fushimi on Sunday.
Retired Malaysian professional cyclist Josiah Ng Onn Lam took to Instagram to honor his former competitor.
“Toshiaki Fushimi wasn’t just a competitor. He was one of the best Keirin riders Japan has ever produced. Grand Prix winner. Olympic Silver Medalist. A true professional on the track,” he wrote. “We raced against each other for years. That kind of rivalry builds a respect that doesn’t fade.
“Devastated to hear he lost his life doing what he loved. My thoughts are with his family and the entire Keirin community in Japan. Rest in peace, champion. 🚴♂️”