With Deep Sympathy: Accident Involving Lorenzo Bonicelli at Rhine-Ruhr 2025

It is with great sadness that we must report a tragic incident that occurred last Wednesday during the men's artistic gymnastics qualifications.

23-year-old Italian gymnast Lorenzo Bonicelli suffered a serious fall during his dismount from the rings — a triple backward somersault — landing badly on his neck. On-site medical personnel responded immediately. Initial treatment began at once, and Lorenzo was transported to the nearby university hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery on his cervical spine that same evening.

Since then, Lorenzo has been in an induced coma. His condition remains uncertain. The medical team treating him believes that a more reliable prognosis may become possible over the next ten days.

Following the accident, the Italian support team, in close coordination with the event organizers, withdrew from the remainder of the competition. This decision was met with the utmost understanding and full respect.

We are in close contact with Lorenzo’s team, the Italian delegation, and his family. Our thoughts are with Lorenzo, his loved ones, his teammates, and everyone close to him during these difficult hours.

On behalf of the entire Rhine-Ruhr 2025 team, we send him our heartfelt wishes for recovery, strength, and hope.