British junior time trial champion Aidan Worden, 18, died Saturday, February 1, 2025, following a collision with a car during his morning training ride in Darwen, Lancashire, England. The incident occurred at approximately 10:28 am, and despite emergency services’ efforts, Worden was pronounced dead at the scene. Lancashire Police are investigating the collision, with specially trained officers supporting Worden’s family while investigators piece together the circumstances.
The loss sent shockwaves through the British cycling community, where Worden had established himself as one of the nation’s most promising young athletes. A member of the prestigious 360cycling team for over three years, his remarkable journey began in BMX riding before he successfully transitioned to road racing, a progression his coach Joe Cadwallader described as “unheard of.” Under Cadwallader’s guidance, Worden developed into an exceptional athlete who would claim multiple championship titles.
Worden’s cycling achievements in 2024 had marked him as a rising star. His crowning achievement came with winning the UK junior 25-mile time trial championship, demonstrating exceptional endurance and technical ability. Earlier that year, he had already proven his racing prowess by securing first place in the junior cyclist category at the prestigious 62nd Eddie Soens Memorial race at Aintree. These accomplishments led British Cycling, the sport’s national governing body, to recognize his potential as a future elite competitor, noting his versatility across multiple disciplines.
Within the 360cycling community, Worden was more than just a talented athlete. His teammates knew him as a highly skilled mechanic who generously shared his expertise. “He never judged anyone and always supported others, especially when it came to fixing our bikes,” his team stated in their official tribute. This technical aptitude extended beyond cycling, as Worden completed an apprenticeship at Aalberts Surface Technologies, a global industrial company specializing in metal treatment and surface technology.
During his three-year tenure with 360cycling, Coach Cadwallader witnessed Worden’s exceptional growth. “He set a clear example of what a young person can accomplish,” Cadwallader said, noting that Worden was planning to pursue a university degree in the coming year. His role as a mentor to fellow team members and his consistent support of others made his loss particularly difficult for the 360cycling community.
Worden’s death has resonated deeply within the international cycling community, which has faced a series of serious incidents in recent weeks. Six members of the German track team were hospitalized following a collision with a vehicle during training in Mallorca, Spain. In another tragic incident, 19-year-old Continental cyclist Sara Piffer died in Italy after being struck by a motorist while training.
Police have issued an urgent appeal for witnesses or anyone with dashcam, CCTV, or doorbell footage from the area to assist with their inquiry. The investigation continues as the cycling community mourns one of its brightest young stars.
Worden’s legacy in British cycling extends beyond titles and victories. In a brief but brilliant career, he embodied the spirit of excellence and mentorship that defines the sport’s next generation. His natural progression and remarkable maturity left an enduring impression on elite competition and grassroots cycling development.