Venezuelan Olympian Daniela Larreal Tragically Passes at 51

Daniela Larreal, a 5-time Olympic cyclist, passes away at 51, leaving a legacy of courage and speed in her wake.

Jul 16, 2015; Milton, Ontario, CAN; Venezuela competes in the women's team pursuit qualifications during the 2015 Pan Am Games at Milton Pan Am Velodrome. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports / Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports

Daniela Larreal Chirinos, an Olympic cyclist who represented her nation five times over two decades, died tragically at 51. Daniela became famous for her speed and will in the velodrome but was found dead in her apartment in Las Vegas last Friday, August 16. Such a sudden end was heartbreaking for an athlete who had spent her life chasing victory.

Daniela's elite cyclist career began when she first attended the Summer Games in Barcelona in 1992. She competed at the highest level through the Atlanta, Sydney, Athens, and London Games in 1996, 2000, 2004, and 2012, respectively. Her best Olympic performance was in London, where she was seventh in the final in the Team Sprint events, bringing to a close an Olympic career characterized by tenacity and class.

QLa Junta Directiva del COV lamenta la partida de Daniela Larreal

Con una destacada trayectoria en el ciclismo de pista logró representarnos con honor en cinco Juegos Olímpicos, acumular cuatro diplomas olímpicos y triunfos que siempre nos llenaron de mucho orgullo.#QEPD pic.twitter.com/YDJpv72X4D

— Comité Olímpico Venezolano (@OfficialCOV) August 16, 2024

Despite never clinching an Olympic medal, Daniela’s legacy in cycling is cemented by her successes in regional competitions. In 2002, she captured two gold medals at the Central American and Caribbean Games in San Salvador and two silver medals at the Pan American Games in Santo Domingo the following year, a testament to her skill and dedication.

Beyond her athletic pursuits, Larreal was known for her outspoken political views. Larreal was deeply involved in Venezuelan politics, where she became a vocal critic of former President Hugo Chávez. Daniela's courage to speak out against corruption, alleging that Chávez and his sports minister, Hector Rodriguez, had misappropriated funds, including sponsorship for a non-existent racing driver, is a testament to her bravery and unwavering commitment to justice.

The circumstances surrounding Daniela’s death remain under investigation. After being reported missing on August 12, she was tragically found lifeless in her apartment days later. Reports indicate that asphyxiation caused by food remains in her trachea was the likely cause. While the official cause of death is still pending, her passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who admired her both as an athlete and a passionate advocate for justice.

The Venezuela Olympic Committee paid tribute to her: "With an outstanding career in track cycling, she represented us with honor in five Olympic Games, accumulating four Olympic diplomas and triumphs that always filled us with great pride."

Daniela Larreal Chirinos may no longer be with us, but her spirit and contributions to cycling and her country will never be forgotten.