UK coroner clears Gibraltar cyclist of responsibility for crash that killed him in France

Community | 30th December 2025, 19:57 | Published by GBC News

A cyclist who represented Gibraltar on the international stage has now been formally cleared of any responsibility for crash that claimed his life in France in September.

A UK coroner has ruled that British athlete Sam O’Shea was struck by a motorcycle travelling on the wrong side of the road.

The 27-year-old was cycling near Perpignan in southern France when the collision occurred on a blind bend.

An inquest heard the motorcyclist had crossed into Sam O’Shea’s lane, leaving him no chance to avoid impact.

He later died from severe chest and abdominal injuries.

Sam O’Shea represented Gibraltar at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and was a well-known figure within the triathlon community.

His family has renewed its call for justice, saying progress in the French criminal investigation has been slow and could take years.

They say the lack of clarity has made it difficult to find closure.

According to the BBC, the Foreign Office has confirmed it is supporting the family and remains in contact with the French authorities.