Tragedy struck the world of motorsports as Italian Junior Rally Champion Matteo Doretto, 21, died following a crash during pre-race testing for the Rally Poland. The accident occurred near Elganowo, close to Pasym, Poland. Doretto's co-pilot, Samuele Pellegrino, was hospitalized as a precaution but did not sustain serious injuries.
According to reports, Doretto's Peugeot 208 Rally4 veered off the road at high speed and collided with a tree. Firefighters worked to extricate Doretto from the wreckage, but paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene. Pellegrino, 26, was able to exit the vehicle on his own and was later taken to the hospital in a state of shock.
A Rising Star Gone Too Soon
Matteo Doretto was considered a promising talent in international rallying. He had recently won the Italian Junior Championship after the Sanremo Rally last year. Coming from a racing family, with both his grandfather Nello and father Michele having successful careers in regional and national rally circuits, Doretto had motorsports in his blood. Outside of racing, he worked as a panel beater in the family business. He was participating in the European Championship for the first time this year.
His last race was the Due Valli rally just two weeks prior, driving a Lancia Ypsilon. The motorsports community, the Automobile Club d'Italia (ACI), and local and national institutions have expressed their condolences. The ACI released a statement mourning the loss of the young champion, remembering him for his talent, dedication, and sportsmanship.
Tributes Pour In
ACI Expresses Deep Sorrow
The Automobile Club d'Italia expressed profound sorrow and condolences to the family of Matteo Doretto. The ACI is providing support to the team and family through diplomatic channels. They will remember Matteo as a young champion who died pursuing his passion.
- Doretto was a rising star in the rally world.
- The accident occurred during pre-race testing.
- The motorsports community mourns the loss of a talented driver.
The loss of Matteo Doretto leaves a void in the Italian motorsports community. His kindness and enthusiasm will be missed by everyone who knew him.