Eya Guezguez performed at the Tokyo Olympics last summer.
Tunisian racer Eya Guezguez has died in rehearsals on Sunday, it is reported on the official website of the Olympics.
Guezguez was 17 when he died.
She was with her twin sister Sarran with practicing on Sunday at sea when a strong wind capsized a sailboat. Sarra Guezguez survived the accident, but Eya did not.
BBC’s according to the sisters coach was involved in the exercises. He first had time to help Sarra, after which she found Eya and tried to revive her. Eya was taken to a hospital where she was found dead.
The sisters made the history of the country last summer as they became Tunisia’s youngest Olympic competitors. At the age of 16, Guezguez’s sisters competed in the women’s 49er FX class in Tokyo and placed 21st.
Thomas Bach, Chairman of the International Olympic Committee, sent his condolences.
– I’m shocked by the news of Eya Guezguez’s death. He was an inspiring talent and role model for many athletes of his generation.
– The participation of Eya Guezguez and her sister in the Tokyo Olympics motivates girls everywhere. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and the Tunisian Olympic community, Bach continued.