Background Context
On June 11, 2025, a devastating accident during pre-race testing for the ORLEN OIL 81st Rally Poland claimed the life of Matteo Doretto, the 2024 Italian Junior Rally Champion, at just 21 years old. The Pordenone native, driving a Peugeot 208 Rally4, crashed into a tree near Elganowo, close to Pasym, in Poland’s Varmia-Masuria region. His co-driver, Samuele Pellegrino, survived with minor injuries. The incident, reported by Polish authorities and confirmed by multiple sources, occurred during preparations for the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC) Junior category event. Doretto’s death, marking a somber moment for motorsport, prompted widespread tributes from fans, teams, and officials, highlighting his rising star status and the sport’s inherent risks.
Tragedy at Rally of Poland: Matteo Doretto, Italian Junior Champion, Dies at 21
June 12, 2025 – The motorsport world is reeling from the tragic death of Matteo Doretto, the 2024 Italian Junior Rally Champion, who lost his life at 21 during pre-race testing for the Rally of Poland on June 11, 2025. The accident, which occurred in the Varmia-Masuria region, has cast a shadow over the ORLEN OIL 81st Rally Poland, a key event in the FIA European Rally Championship (ERC). Here’s a detailed account of the tragedy, Doretto’s legacy, and the outpouring of grief.
The Fatal Accident
During a test session on the Pasym–Elganowo stage, Doretto’s Peugeot 208 Rally4 veered off the road at high speed, striking a lone tree near Elganowo, close to Pasym, as confirmed by Grzegorz Różański, spokesperson for the Olsztyn fire brigade. The violent impact primarily affected the driver’s side, trapping Doretto in the wreckage. Firefighters worked extensively to extricate him, but despite multiple resuscitation attempts, medical personnel pronounced him dead at the scene.
Co-driver Samuele Pellegrino, 26, escaped the vehicle independently and was hospitalized in stable condition, though in shock after witnessing the failed rescue efforts. Local media, including RMF FM, and Polish authorities reported no external factors like road conditions or other vehicles contributed to the crash, which occurred during routine high-speed testing for the ERC Junior category event scheduled for June 13–15, 2025.
Matteo Doretto: A Rising Star
Born in 2003 in Pordenone, Italy, Matteo Doretto was a prodigy in rally racing. His 2024 Italian Junior Rally Championship title, earned through the ACI Team Italia program, showcased his skill and ambition. Supported by Motorsport Italia and Pirelli, Doretto debuted in the FIA ERC Junior category in 2024, driving a Peugeot 208 Rally4 for MS Munaretto alongside co-driver Andrea Budoia. His 2025 season marked his first full international campaign, with races planned across Europe, including Spain, Hungary, and Sweden.
Doretto’s talent was evident early, with ACI Sport selecting him for its Youth Project. His grit and precision earned him a spot among 32 young drivers unveiled at ACI’s Rome headquarters in February 2025. Fans on X praised his fearless driving, with @SplitTimeRally noting, “21 years old, a champion with so much promise.”
Tributes and Motorsport’s Response
The tragedy prompted an outpouring of grief:
- ACI Team Italia: The Italian Motorsport Federation expressed “deep sorrow,” canceling promotional activities for the Rally Poland.
- FIA ERC: The championship’s official site issued a statement mourning Doretto, with plans to honor him during the event.
- Polish Authorities: Rally organizers and local officials, via Różański, extended condolences, noting the sport’s inherent dangers.
- Fans on X: Posts reflected heartbreak, with @rallycast_ writing, “Malas noticias desde Polonia. Descanse en paz,” and @kontra_moto adding, “Nasze myśli są obecnie z jego bliskimi.” Others, like @DavidCabaleiro3, called it “horrible news.”
The Rally Poland, a historic event once part of the World Rally Championship, proceeded with somber adjustments, including a planned moment of silence.
Motorsport’s Tragic History
Doretto’s death joins a grim list of rally fatalities, such as Attilio Bettega (1985 Tour de Corse) and Lorenzo Somaschini (2024, Brazil). The sport’s high-speed nature, often on narrow roads, poses persistent risks, despite safety advances like reinforced cockpits and HANS devices. X users like @fuoripistanet urged for renewed safety discussions, though no specific measures were announced post-incident.
Why It Matters
Doretto’s loss underscores the fragility of motorsport’s young talents and the emotional toll on families, teams, and fans. His death, just a year after his championship win, highlights the sport’s allure and peril. As the ERC continues, the focus shifts to honoring Doretto’s legacy while addressing safety concerns.
Suggested Authoritative Sources:
- Il Sole 24 Ore: Detailed accident report and official statements.
- Il Messaggero: Context on Doretto’s career and crash details.
- Rai News: Coverage of the incident and tributes.
- The Shield of Sports: Doretto’s championship background.
- Corriere del Veneto: Local perspective on Pordenone’s loss.
