The fifth edition of the Vuelta Bantrab 2026 was marked this Wednesday, April 29, by a massive fall that interrupted the first stage in the first kilometers of the route from Amatitlán.
The incident was caused by a motorcyclist who ignored the instructions of the authorities in charge of the protection and security of the event, crossing in front of the peloton and generating a chain accident that involved numerous cyclists and media personnel present at the race.
Several competitors were injured and had to abandon the competition, with cyclist Carlos Acajabón being the most affected by the fall, which occurred at approximately kilometer 41 of the route. Finisher was transported by ambulance to receive emergency medical attention, while other runners also required assistance at the scene before the race was neutralized.
After evaluating the situation, the race authorities decided to cancel the section traveled from Amatitlán to the point of the incident, as well as the first wheel of the contest. The first official stage of the Vuelta Bantrab 2026 started from El Florido, Aceituno, Escuintla, at kilometer 43 of the original route, so the stage had an official distance of 118.8 kilometers to the finish line in Retalhuleu.
The Federation will take legal action
Given what happened, the National Cycling Sports Federation of Guatemala issued an official statement in which it deeply regretted the incident and announced concrete measures. “According to preliminary information, the event originated from the presence of a motorcyclist on the competition road, who ignored the instructions of the authorities in charge of the protection and security of the event”the organization said in its statement.
The Federation also confirmed that it will initiate the corresponding legal processes to clarify the facts. “We will initiate the corresponding legal processes to clarify the facts and deduce the responsibilities that correspond by law, in safeguarding the integrity of the athletes and the safe development of our competitions”indicated the official statement from the governing body of Guatemalan cycling.
The Federation reiterated its commitment to the safety of all participants and announced that it will continue to work hand in hand with the authorities to strengthen security protocols in future events.