On Wednesday evening, professional cyclist Célia Le Mouel, currently with St Michel-Mavic-Auber 93 and set to join Ceratizit WNT next season, was struck by a vehicle while training in Brest. In an account reported by Le Telegramme on Sunday, Le Mouel revealed that the collision was not only a physical impact but a stark reminder of the vulnerability cyclists face on the roads.
Le Mouel shared that the incident occurred as a car turning left cut across her path without checking for oncoming traffic. “Wednesday evening I was hit violently by a car. Turning left, it cut across quickly without noticing I was coming from the opposite direction, even though I was wearing a reflective vest and had my headlight on; there was nothing I could do,” she told the press, recounting the terrifying moment.
In 2024, Le Mouel has shown impressive form in several key races. She took 5th place on Stage 5 of the Tour Féminin de l’Ardèche and 11th in the individual time trial at the French National Championships. In addition, she placed 14th at the GP d’Isbergues, showing consistency across various terrains and disciplines throughout the season.
Despite her fortunate escape without serious injuries from the recent collision, Le Mouel noted the psychological toll such accidents impose. “Fortunately, considering the force of the impact, I got away very well, without major physical consequences. But psychologically, it does leave a mark,” she wrote, reflecting on the lasting effects of such close calls.
Le Mouel’s frustration extended to the lack of caution from drivers towards cyclists, particularly in urban settings. “Sadly, it’s yet another car-versus-bike accident, with too little vigilance from motorists toward cyclists. We’re so much more vulnerable than them—without any protective shell—and all we want is to train or move about safely without fearing being run over,” she commented, capturing the frustration many in the cycling community feel.
A message she shared later conveyed both relief and frustration: “Thank you for your help! And thanks to the messages of support. Indeed, it was the car that cut me off as it was coming from the opposite side, and I had a headlight and a reflective vest. The shock was more violent than the after-effects fortunately.”
