Olympic cyclist Toshiaki Fushimi dies after keirin crash

Japanese Olympic cyclist Toshiaki Fushimi died on July 19, 2026, from injuries sustained in a crash during a professional keirin race the previous day. He was 50 years old.

The fatal accident occurred on July 18 during the 12th race of the Matsusaka Keirin tournament in Mie Prefecture, Japan. According to officials, riders in front of Fushimi collided near the end of the race. In an attempt to avoid the crash, Fushimi swerved toward the outside of the track but struck the outer barrier. He suffered severe injuries, including fractures to his cervical vertebrae and skull, and was immediately transported to a hospital in Matsusaka. Despite medical treatment, his condition remained critical, and he was pronounced dead at 10:15 a.m. the following morning.

The Japan Keirin Association (JKA), the sport's governing body, confirmed his death. Chairman Hiroshi Kido expressed profound sorrow, stating it was heartbreaking that Fushimi lost his life in a racing accident. Kido said the association would reconfirm its safety measures and work to thoroughly ensure fair and safe races in the future.

Fushimi was a legendary figure in Japanese cycling with a career spanning more than three...