Jesús López, a 48-year-old rally driver known as Pijo, died on August 23, 2026, following a crash during the seventh edition of the Subida a Taboadela, according to the Federación Galega de Automobilismo (FGA). The vehicle he was driving, a Forwin RS23, suffered a heavy impact against the wall of a house before catching fire, as reported by source materials. The tragedy prompted the immediate cancellation of the competition.
The Crash at Subida a Taboadela
The fatal incident occurred around 11:30 a.m. during the third official run of the event, which served as the first session of the Sunday competition. Driving the Forwin RS23, Jesús López lost control near the end of the course, possibly due to moisture on the asphalt, and struck a tree and the gate of a residential property. The impact hit near the fuel tank, causing the vehicle to ignite almost instantly. Emergency responders, including firefighters from San Cibrao das Viñas, the Emergency Response Team (GES) of Pereiro de Aguiar, and the Traffic Division of the Civil Guard, rushed to the scene alongside health and civil protection services, but could not save the driver.
Injuries and Emergency Response
Individuals sustained injuries during the accident and subsequent rescue attempts, according to source reports. Two spectators standing near the impact zone were hurt; one was launched by the force of the collision and hospitalized with significant injuries, while another suffered minor wounds and burns while trying to approach the burning wreckage and handle parts, as detailed by witness accounts. Medical teams additionally treated the wife and goddaughter of the deceased driver at the scene.
Tributes and Community Impact
The sudden loss of Jesús López deeply affected the regional motorsport community, where he was widely known. López had finished ninth in the first day and was preparing to return to hillclimb racing after seven years, boasting a long career in hillclimb races, rallies, rally sprints, mixed rallies, and slaloms. Jano Fraga, president of Escudería Ourense and a personal friend, described him to the press as a prominent figure who prepared competition prototypes through his local shop, +Taller, and remembered him as someone who was very dear to everyone in Ourense. The FGA released an official statement confirming his death and extending condolences to his family and team, Ourense Racing.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the accident happen?
The crash occurred on August 23, 2026, around 11:30 a.m. during the seventh edition of the Subida a Taboadela.
What caused the vehicle to catch fire?
According to witness accounts and regional reporting, the vehicle struck an obstacle near the fuel tank area, causing it to ignite rapidly.
Was the competition completed?
No, the Federación Galega de Automobilismo immediately cancelled the remainder of the event following the incident.
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