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United States | Midwest | Ohio >> MTB World Champion Fabien Barel Suffers Horrific Downhill Crash

MTB World Champion Fabien Barel Suffers Horrific Downhill Crash

French mountain bike legend Fabien Barel has suffered a major crash during a recent test session. According to Barel, the impact left him with several fractured vertebrae, a strong head trauma, and multiple contusions.

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Fabien Barel, three-time Elite Downhill World Champion and pioneer of modern downhill and enduro riding, was seriously injured in a crash during a recent test session. The impact resulted in several fractured vertebrae, a significant head trauma, and multiple contusions. Barel spent several days in hospital for scans and observation and has since returned home to continue his recovery.

Barel, 44, sustained the injuries while testing equipment and trail lines ahead of upcoming development work. Medical teams stabilized him immediately after the crash and performed a series of imaging studies to assess spinal and cranial injuries. Following a monitored hospital stay, Barel was discharged with a rehabilitation plan focused on spinal healing and neurological monitoring. Family, friends, and colleagues report that he is in good spirits and committed to following medical guidance throughout recovery.

Barel issued the following statement, "Life has its way of reminding us how quickly things can change. During a recent test session, I had a heavy crash…The kind of crash that knocks you out and leaves you with no memory of what happened."

"The impact left me with several fractured vertebrae, a strong head trauma, and multiple contusions. I spent few days in the hospital undergoing checks and scans, surrounded by incredible medical staff and the support of those close to me. I’m now back home, slowly getting back on my feet."

"The next weeks will tell us if a neck surgery is needed…but I am confident it won’t be! The road ahead is long, but I’ve always believed in moving forward, step by step, with determination. The mindset is crucial here…Believing in Life, believing in yourself…and that everything happen for a good reason!"

"I am different today, than I was yesterday, and than I will be tomorrow but one thing is sure…I will never give up. Thanks for all the love and support. It means the world."

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A central figure in gravity racing for more than two decades, Barel earned multiple Downhill World Cup victories and three Elite Downhill World Championship titles. Since stepping back from full-time racing, he has focused on bike development and mentoring rising talent, playing a key role in shaping Canyon’s gravity program and advising younger riders. His influence on bike design, trail technique, and athlete development has left a lasting mark on the sport worldwide.

“We are all relieved that Fabien has been discharged and is now resting at home,” said Marc Dupont, Director of Canyon Gravity Programs. “Fabien’s strength, experience, and resilience are well known. He has always given everything to progress the sport and support riders. Our priority is his recovery, and we will stand by him as he follows the rehabilitation plan recommended by his medical team.”

The mountain bike community has rallied with messages of support from former teammates, competitors, manufacturers, and fans. While the full timeline for recovery is not yet known, medical professionals involved emphasize cautious rehabilitation for spinal fractures and head trauma to ensure the best long-term outcome. Barel and his family have asked for privacy as he focuses on healing and will share updates as appropriate.

Fabien Barel is a French mountain bike legend whose competitive career helped define modern downhill and enduro racing. A multi-time Downhill World Cup winner and three-time Elite Downhill World Champion, Barel transitioned into development and mentorship roles after retiring from full-time competition. He has been instrumental in bike development, coaching, and shaping gravity-riding programs, influencing a generation of riders and the industry at large.

 
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