Rising Italian rally star Matteo Doretto has died at the age of 21 following a tragic crash during a private test session in northeastern Poland. The fatal accident occurred Wednesday morning near the town of Pasym, ahead of the upcoming Rally Poland event, officials confirmed.
Doretto, who was driving a Peugeot 208 Rally4, lost control of the vehicle and struck a tree, according to a statement released by the European Rally Championship (ERC). His co-driver, Samuele Pellegrino, was unharmed in the incident.
The motorsport community has been shaken by the loss. Doretto, hailed for both his talent and humility, had quickly risen through the ranks of rally racing. He was the reigning Italian junior champion and was competing in his debut season in the ERC, where he was ranked fourth in the junior standings.
“With potential in abundance, Matteo was polite, engaging, but above all, modest,” the ERC said in tribute.
The Automobile Club of Italy also expressed deep sorrow, praising the young driver’s dedication and promise on the international stage.
Doretto’s sudden passing has left a void in the world of motorsports, with tributes pouring in from across Europe and beyond. Rally Poland organizers and fans are expected to honor his memory during the upcoming event.