In brief
In a train crash near Madrid that claimed at least 69 lives, Spanish long‑jumper Julieta Gallego, 24, was confirmed dead. The collision occurred in Toledo province about 120 km south of Madrid. Spanish Athletics Federation president Raul Chapado expressed deep sympathy, while the federation posted a message of support for her family.
In a train collision that killed at least 69 people, Spanish long‑jumper Julieta Gallego, 24, was confirmed dead a day after the accident took place near Madrid.
The crash, which involved one train ramming into the back of another, occurred in Toledo province, roughly 120 kilometres south of Madrid, according to reports.
Gallego, a Madrid‑based AD Spring athlete who lived in Germany but was visiting Spain, had a personal best of 5.90 m from the 2023 Spain Under‑23 Indoor Championships.
Raul Chapado, president of the Royal Spanish Athletics Federation, said:
"There are blows that hurt to the very core of the athletics family. Today, sport mourns the passing of Julieta— a life ahead that has been unjustly extinguished. Spanish athletics embraces Julieta’s soul and the immense pain of her family, her friends, and her lifelong club. They are not alone in this void,"said Chapado in a statement.
The federation also posted on social media, expressing profound grief and wishing support to Gallego’s family, loved ones and club companions.
