Lorenzo Bonicelli, the artistic gymnast from Italy, remains in stable condition as he continues to recover from a serious neck injury sustained during the 2025 FISU Summer World University Games in Germany’s Rhine-Ruhr region on Wednesday (23 July).
According to a the Italian Gymnastics Federation (FGI) on Thursday (31 July), the 23-year old is still being treated at the University Hospital of Essen where doctors have indicated he would require at least another week of hospitalisation before discharge can be considered.
“Lorenzo has sustained the effects of a cervical sprain injury with subluxation of the fifth vertebra, which was promptly and successfully reduced during surgery. Unfortunately, neurological damage remains, the extent of which cannot yet be assessed,” part of the statement read.
The gymnast is reported to be in “generally good condition,” although a tracheotomy was performed “to facilitate breathing.” Plans are underway to transfer Bonicelli back to Italy to continue his recovery in a rehabilitation facility.
“Bonicelli is conscious and supported by his parents, Vania and Simone, and his girlfriend, Lisa Rigamonti, who have remained by his side,” the FGI added.
Three days ago, Rigamonti, a former gymnast and now a trained nurse, wrote on social media: “What happened is something very complicated that will completely change his life. For now, the situation is stable, but we need to wait before we can be certain about what the future holds. In this uncertain future, Lorenzo will need us — and you — more than ever.”
The 23-year-old was competing in the team final and qualification round of the men’s artistic gymnastics event when the incident occurred. During his third apparatus, the still rings, Bonicelli attempted a high-difficulty dismount, the triple back. He under-rotated and landed directly on his neck.
Medical personnel rushed to his side immediately, and he was stretchered out of the arena before being taken to the nearby University Hospital in Essen where the Mercatorum University economics student underwent surgery.
The incident forced the Italian Gymnastics Federation to withdraw the men’s artistic gymnastics team from the competition, citing the emotional impact on the athletes.
Bonicelli had been a strong contender for Italy’s squad for the 2025 World Championships in Jakarta slated for 19–25 October.