Turkish rider Mustafa Ayyorkun dies after crash during Tour of Iran

Mustafa Ayyorkun
Mustafa Ayyorkun (Image credit: Mustafa Ayyorkun/Instagram)

The Turkish Cycling Federation announced on Wednesday the tragic death of 21-year-old Continental pro Mustafa Ayyorkun (Spor Toto) following a crash during stage 5 of the Tour of Iran last Saturday.

Ayyorkun was transported to hospital with a fractured vertebra in his neck, according to the statement, but died suddenly on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.

In a statement, Turkish Cycling Federation President Emin Müftüoğlu said they had been in contact with the Turkish consulate in Iran since the crash happened.

"Immediately after the accident that occurred during the race, our Ministry of Youth and Sports was in close contact with our Tabriz Consulate, the Tehran Embassy, and Iranian officials. Since Saturday, we have been closely and meticulously following the process.

"We received information from the hospital that our athlete had a fracture in his neck and would be kept under observation for three days. His health situation was progressing positively. However, the sudden news of his passing last night deeply shocked us all. We are very sad. Mustafa Ayyorkun was a great value for Turkish cycling," Müftüoğlu stated.

Cyclingnews sends our deepest condolences to Mustafa's family, friends and teammates.

TOPICS
Laura Weislo
Managing Editor

Laura Weislo is a Cyclingnews veteran of 20 years. Having joined in 2006, Laura extensively covered the Operacion Puerto doping scandal, the years-long conflict between the UCI and the Tour de France organisers ASO over the creation of the WorldTour, and the downfall of Lance Armstrong and his lifetime ban for doping. As Managing Editor, Laura coordinates coverage for North American events and global news.

You must confirm your public display name before commenting

Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.