Said Haddou, former French professional cyclist, has left us today at the age of 43 following a motorcycle accident. It came like a bolt from the blue and above all it is difficult news for us to share, as we had known him so well during last year's Tour of Oman and on that occasion we told you his story. 

Born on November 23, 1982 in Issy-les-Moulineaux, Said grew up in Marseille where he discovered cycling somewhat by chance. He raced as a professional from 2005 to 2012, competing for teams such as Bbox Telecom and Team Europcar, achieving 5 victories, with his last one in 2012 at the Tallin Tartu Grand Prix. His palmares include one participation in the Tour and one in the Giro d'Italia, both in 2009, two special experiences that he remembered with great emotion, especially the one in our country. "It was beautiful even though after the Giro I gained 4 kilos, every evening they brought us lots of things to eat and I couldn't say no," he told us with a smile a few months ago. His true dream had been to participate in the Grand Boucle, where he became the first cyclist of Arab origin to take part since 1954.

After ending his career as an athlete, he worked in real estate, but never abandoned the world of cycling. Thanks to his dear friend Thomas Voeckler, he returned to the racing world as a driver, accompanying guests and journalists during French races and those abroad organized by ASO. This year we met him at the Tour of Oman where, in his role as personal driver, he accompanied us during the stages, allowing us to experience the race in a truly special way. After the Omani race we stayed in touch until we received today the tragic news of his death due to a motorcycle accident. 

On behalf of the tuttobiciweb editorial team, we send our deepest condolences to his entire family.