We sadly confirm the death of a participant in the 2022 RideLondon-Essex 100.

Valentin Buliga, a Romanian-born 41 year old property and construction business owner, lived in north west London. He suffered a cardiac arrest near Stebbing Green at around the 49 mile mark and received immediate treatment from fellow riders and medical personnel at the scene.

He never recovered consciousness and died in hospital on 22 June.

John Jorja, speaking on behalf of Valentin’s family, said: “Valentin loved cycling and was so happy and excited on the morning of the event. He was a fantastic person, colleague and friend. He very generously gave the gift of life to others after he passed.”

A fundraising page has been set up for the funeral in Romania and to support Valentin’s family.

Everyone involved in RideLondon would like to express our sincere condolences to Valentin’s family and friends.

No further details will be released and the family has asked for privacy.

Ends

_{Notes for Editors}

_{A total of 22,367 riders completed the RideLondon-Essex 100, 60 and 30 sportives on Sunday 29 May.}