Osama Al Shafar, former UCI vice-president, has died
Osama Al Shafar, the UCI vice-president from 2021-2025 and head of the Asian Cycling Confederation from 2017-2025, has died.
Al Shafar, a prominent figure in sports and business from the United Arab Emirates, held a number of roles in cycling and beyond. He first entered the world of sports administration as president of the UAE Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation, later becoming president of the continental governing body. He was also the head of the UAE Cycling Federation until this year, and played a key role in developing and launching the WorldTour-level UAE Tour races.
According to reports, Al Shafar died as a result of an accident while in Uzbekistan. He was 50 years old.
Al Shafar has been remembered in a statement from the UAE Tour as "a pioneer, a leader, and a driving force behind the sport’s rise in the region." David Lappartient, UCI President, wrote that "Osama was a true friend, and we mourn his loss."
Escape Collective sends its condolences to those who knew and loved him.
