The French Cycling Federation has called for a minute’s silence and protests across France on Saturday, following the tragic death of a cyclist in Paris who was run over by an SUV. The incident, which took place on Tuesday in central Paris, has reignited concerns about road safety and the growing tensions between cyclists and motorists in the city.
The 27-year-old cyclist was killed after a confrontation with the 52-year-old SUV driver, who had driven onto a bicycle lane to bypass traffic. After the SUV rolled over the cyclist’s foot, an altercation ensued, leading to the driver allegedly reversing over the cyclist twice. The driver has since been arrested and is in pre-trial detention, accused of deliberately killing the cyclist.
In response, the French Cycling Federation condemned the “trivialization of violence” on the roads and called for demonstrations in front of town halls nationwide. “Cyclists and pedestrians have a fundamental right to safety on our roads,” the group stated, urging for stronger protections for those who choose environmentally friendly transportation.
Paris has seen an expansion of cycling lanes under Mayor Anne Hidalgo, positioning it as a leader in cycling infrastructure. However, the growth in cycle lanes has intensified conflicts with motorists. Hidalgo expressed her dismay at the cyclist’s death, stating, “It is unacceptable to die in this day and age while cycling in Paris, at 27 years old.”
In 2023, 226 cyclists lost their lives on French roads, a number that has sparked debate over how to ensure safer streets for cyclists and pedestrians.
