FIM Motocross World Champion Tony Cairoli is dealing with the sudden death of father Benedetto and the tragic circumstances of losing both of his parents in the space of three years.
The 28-year-old Red Bull KTM rider saw his mother Paola succumb to illness just after winning the 2011 MX1 World Championship and elected not to compete at the final round of the series – his home GP – at Fermo.
Now, just 10 days before the British Grand Prix, Cairoli’s world has been turned upside down again.
Full details of Benedetto’s passing back in Sicily are not known. A press release by the De Carli faction of the KTM team simply stated ‘sudden illness’ although it is believed that a car accident on Wednesday evening was the ultimate cause, possibly instigated by a heart problem.
Cairoli raced to fourth position last weekend in Spain watched by his father and group of friends who regularly attended Grand Prix events.
The world champion is the youngest of four, with sisters Antonia, Mara and Sara surviving their parents. He landed in Sicily and the family’s hometown of Patti this morning (Thursday) to take care of arrangements. Claudio De Carli commented: “Just a few days ago Benedetto was with us in Spain to follow Antonio in the races, with his wonderful spirit, always full of friendlines and trust. Benedetto, who passed on to Antonio his passion for racing and forged his son’s character so beautifully, will always be by Antonio’s side in racing and life and part of our team.”
