A car entered the course of the SauerlandRundfahrt 2026 cycling race in Germany, nearly colliding with 21-year-old rider Louis Leidert. The Volkswagen vehicle reportedly entered the 13.7-kilometer time trial route and was seen approaching Leidert. The cyclist managed to swerve, and the car mounted the curb, avoiding a potentially serious accident. Footage of the close call has circulated widely on social media.
IMAGE2 A Volkswagen vehicle driving towards cyclist Louis Leidert during the SauerlandRundfahrt 2026 event.
Reports indicate a second car was also present at a junction near Leidert's racing line. The incident has fueled anger and concern within the cycling community, particularly following the death of British cyclist Finlay Tarling, 19, three weeks prior. Tarling was killed after colliding with a non-race vehicle during the Volta a Portugal stage race. Despite prompt medical attention, he suffered cardiorespiratory arrest and could not be revived.
IMAGE5 A memorial featuring a floral wreath and cycling jerseys for Finlay Tarling.
Fans expressed outrage online, with comments questioning whether lessons had been learned from Tarling's fatal accident. Some suggested that all riders should have refused to continue the race. Tarling, brother to world champion Josh Tarling, was considered a rising star and was under contract with the NSN Development Team.
IMAGE6 Louis Leidert of Germany and Team Lidl – Trek Future Racing competes during the 40th Classica Comunitat Valenciana.
The SauerlandRundfahrt is a four-day event. Ben Zwiehoff of Germany won the opening time trial stage, finishing seven seconds ahead of compatriot Miguel Heidemann. An individual time trial requires cyclists to race alone against the clock over a set distance. The race is scheduled to conclude with a mountain finale in Winterberg.