Sports star, 18, tragically killed in Swiss nightclub fireplace as tributes pour in
The FIA have announced the death of an 18-year-old karting driver following the tragic Crans-Montana fire.
Swiss driver Joaquim van Thuyne passed away in the horrific New Year’s Eve blaze. The ski-resort town of Crans-Monatna, Valais, Switzerland, has been left in mourning and shock after an estimated 40 people died and another 119 were injured in a fire as partygoers saw in the new year.
Van Thuyne’s death was announced by the FIA in a heartfelt statement on Tuesday. It read: “It is with deep sadness that the FIA has learned of the death of Joaquim van Thuyne, an 18‑year‑old Swiss karting driver, in the tragic fire at Crans-Montana on New Year’s Eve.
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
“Joaquim’s professionalism, kindness and his passion for the sport made a lasting impression on all who knew him and competing alongside him.
“We join with the global motorsport community in expressing our deep sorrow at this difficult time.
“During the early years of his career competing in Switzerland, Joaquim demonstrated a love for the sport and great promise, including a top-ten finish in the highly contested x30 Challenge Switzerland.
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
“Racing with the Swiss Hutless team and also a member of FC Lutry junior football team who he was with on New Year’s Eve, we know how deeply this loss will be felt by so many.
“The FIA extends its heartfelt condolences to Joaquim’s family, friends and teammates, as well as to all the victims of this devastating tragedy.”
Van Thuyne was among the 40 people who tragically died in the blaze, the victims’ ages range from 14-years-old to 39, and 83 of those 119 injured are still in hospital.
Another young sporting prodigy to sadly be lost to the blaze was 18-year-old Benjamin Johnson from Lausanne Boxing Club. Benjamin has been labelled a ‘hero’ with it believed he died while tragically trying to save his friend.
Swiss Boxing Federation president Amir Orfia hailed the teenager for his actions in a statement released this week.
It read: “According to witnesses, he lost his life while rescuing his friend, thus allowing her to survive. This act of ultimate altruism perfectly reflects who he was: someone who always helped others.”
A post by the SBF on social media added: “Benjamin left us as a hero, helping his friend. Our thoughts are with his family, relatives and all the victims of this national tragedy.”
