The motor sports community in Galicia is in mourning following the death of veteran driver Jesús López, widely known as “Pijo.” López died on Sunday following a high-speed accident during the seventh edition of the Subida a Taboadela, according to reports confirmed by the Federación Gallega de Automovilismo and local emergency services.
Tragedy Strikes Taboadela Hillclimb
The annual hillclimb event serves as a points-paying round for the Xunta de Galicia Mountain Championship. It was immediately canceled following the incident. According to 112 Galicia, López’s vehicle veered off the road and completely caught fire during the competition runs held around midday.
Emergency Response at the Scene
Emergency response teams rushed to the venue.
The San Cibrao das Viñas Fire Department, members of the GES de Pereiro de Aguiar, and the Guardia Civil de Tráfico were dispatched to the scene alongside medical personnel. Organizers had ambulances and healthcare staff stationed at the venue, who quickly tended to the casualties before transporting them to the Hospital de Ourense.
Collateral Injuries and Family Impact
The crash also resulted in two additional injuries.
According to regional emergency updates, a driver from another competing vehicle sustained considerable injuries after being struck by López’s car. A spectator was also evaluated at the scene, though authorities confirmed that their injuries were not serious. Additionally, medical units from 061 Galicia deployed a healthcare vehicle to assist the wife and goddaughter of the late driver, who were deeply affected by the tragedy.
Tributes from the Racing Community
The Rally de Ourense published an official statement mourning the loss of one of the true pillars of local motorsport, describing López as a tireless driver who had competed across nearly every discipline of motor racing.
Official Review and Next Steps
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