THE local cycling community is in mourning following the devastating news of the untimely death of Kusekhaya Cycling Club veteran, Vitor Oliveira.
The seasoned rider tragically passed away on Wednesday morning after being struck by a Quantum minibus at Thembelihle while riding with fellow cyclists. His sudden death has sent shockwaves through the cycling fraternity, leaving riders and friends heartbroken.
Oliveira’s passing serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers cyclists face daily while sharing the road with motorists. Just over a month ago, his own club, Kusekhaya Cycling, partnered with Galp Eswatini to host a Safety Awareness Ride aimed at promoting road safety and advocating for responsible driving to help reduce fatalities. Despite these commendable efforts, tragedy has struck once more—underscoring the ongoing and relentless risks cyclists encounter.
Last year, the cycling community endured significant grief. Newcom Wheels Cycling Club’s Shirley Kenny Motsa and MTN Khemani’s Dr. Malvern Masango also tragically lost their lives during morning rides, shaking the sport to its core. With the addition of Oliveira’s untimely passing, the sense of loss has only deepened.
Vitor had recently participated in the inaugural Darkton Cycling Club DayBreak Road Race in Siphofaneni, where his energy and love for the sport were on full display. He left the event with two prestigious awards—one recognising his contributions to cycling and the event itself, and another as the Best Veteran. That day captured the spirit of a man who lived and breathed the sport.
Yet, despite his passion and personal triumphs, fate has proven cruel. His death is a stark reminder that reckless driving continues to claim innocent lives, even as awareness efforts grow more urgent each year.
Kusekhaya Cycling Club
“We are deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of our beloved fellow cyclist, Vitor Manuel da Costa Oliveira, who lost his life in a road accident on April 9, 2025 while doing what he loved: cycling.
“Vitor was more than just a cyclist; he was a passionate rider, a loyal friend and an inspiration to all who knew him. His enthusiasm, dedication and kindness left a lasting impact on our club and the broader cycling community. His absence leaves a void that cannot be filled.
“On behalf of the Kusekhaya Cycling Club, we extend our deepest condolences to Vitor’s family, friends, colleagues and fellow cyclists. His contributions to the sport and his unwavering spirit were immeasurable. May Vitor’s soul rest in eternal peace and may his legacy inspire us to ride with purpose, passion and unity—just as he did.”
Darkton Cycling Club
“On Wednesday, we awoke to the heartbreaking news of yet another cyclist’s tragic passing on our roads. As we stand in solidarity with the cycling community and the broader sports fraternity in the Kingdom of Eswatini, we mourn the sudden loss of Vitor Manuel da Costa Oliveira.
“We kindly urge all road users, especially motorists, to share the road responsibly. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, business associates and teammates at Kusekhaya Cycling Club.”
Team G Cycling Club
“This news is truly shocking. It is incredibly sad to learn that we have lost another cyclist on roads we are meant to share. Reckless driving by motorists continues to discourage the sport we love. Imagine waking up to train for your well-being and never making it back home. It is heartbreaking.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Oliveira family, Kusekhaya Cycling Club, and all cycling teams at large. May God grant you strength in these difficult times.
Rest in peace, Vitor.”
