Trailblazing Paralympic Champion Dies Unexpectedly in Morocco

A member of the La Serena Athletics Club in Villanueva de la Serena, Badajoz, Mehdi Raiss recently traveled to Morocco, his country of origin, to complete administrative formalities related to his marriage, celebrated just over a month ago. For the moment, the exact cause of his death is not known.

Raiss managed to establish himself as a leading figure in Paralympic athletics in Spain. He broke more than 10 national records and represented the Spanish national team on several occasions in international championships. He was even pre-selected for the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games. Last April, he won the 200, 800 and 1,500 meter races at the Extremadura championship, as well as a bronze medal at the Spanish adapted athletics championship.

The news of the sudden disappearance of this exceptional athlete, 21-time Spanish champion, was a shock to his club and his hometown in Spain. Throughout his career, Medi Raiss has been an example of resilience and commitment. "We are deeply shocked and saddened. One of the most well-known, authentic and beloved athletes of Villanova has just passed away while traveling in Morocco. We will never forget you, my friend Mehdi. Rest in peace," wrote the La Serena Athletics Club on its Facebook page.

"He was a very loved person, he was very joyful and involved in everything; he had won the affection of the people," said his coach, Jesús Hidalgo, in the press, saluting the charisma and determination of Mehdi Raiss. The Spanish Federation of Sports for Persons with Cerebral Palsy and Acquired Brain Injury (FEDPC) also expressed its deep regret for the loss of the athlete who "leaves an indelible mark on sport and the lives of those who knew him."