The world of alpine skiing is in mourning following the tragic death of 19-year-old ski racing prodigy Luca Moretti, who died on Monday during a routine training session in the Italian Alps.
Moretti, considered one of the brightest young talents in competitive skiing, was training with the national junior team when he lost control during a high-speed descent on a challenging section of the course. According to eyewitnesses, the crash occurred near the Val d’Isère slope, a notoriously difficult route used by professional athletes preparing for international competitions.
Emergency services responded immediately, and Moretti was airlifted to a nearby hospital in Aosta. Despite efforts to stabilize him, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival. Doctors confirmed he suffered severe head trauma and internal injuries.
Born in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Moretti began skiing at the age of four and quickly rose through the ranks of Italy’s competitive circuit. Just last month, he had clinched a gold medal at the European Junior Championships, sparking hopes of a promising future on the World Cup circuit.
Tributes poured in from around the globe. Olympic champion Marco Bellini wrote on social media, “Luca was more than a talent—he was a kind soul with a heart full of passion. This is an unimaginable loss.”
The Italian Winter Sports Federation has announced a moment of silence will be observed during the upcoming national championships. “We have lost not only an athlete, but a member of our family,” the Federation said in an emotional statement.
An investigation into the cause of the accident is currently underway. Authorities have stated that weather conditions were clear at the time, and the course had passed all safety inspections.
Luca Moretti is survived by his parents and younger sister. Plans for a memorial service will be announced in the coming days.
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