Sudden loss of a champion
Australian para-cycling star Paige Greco has died unexpectedly at the age of 28, following what authorities described as a “sudden medical episode” at her home in Adelaide, South Australia. The news prompted an outpouring of grief from the sporting community in Australia and around the world, with national bodies expressing profound sorrow at the passing of one of the Paralympic movement’s most admired athletes.
A remarkable sporting journey
Born with cerebral palsy affecting her right side, Greco overcame early medical expectations to become one of Australia’s most decorated para-cyclists. She switched from athletics to cycling and made her international breakthrough at the 2019 UCI Para-Cycling Track World Championships, where she set multiple world records. At the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games she won gold in the women’s C1-3 3,000 metre individual pursuit, setting a new world record, and also secured bronze medals in both the road race and time trial events. Beyond the Paralympics, Greco held multiple world championship titles and World Cup medals, proving her prowess on both track and road disciplines.
Impact and legacy
Her mother, Natalie Greco, described Paige as someone whose kindness, warmth and determination touched everyone who knew her:
Paige meant everything to us… She brought so much joy and pride into our lives.
- AusCycling said the sport was “heartbroken” by the loss of an athlete who achieved “outstanding accomplishments… and touched the lives of everyone around her.”
- Paralympics Australia said Greco was “one of the brightest young stars of the Australian Paralympic movement… a remarkable person.”
What we know about her death
Greco passed away at her home in Adelaide after being found in medical distress on Sunday. Authorities described the death as resulting from a “sudden medical episode” and stated there were no suspicious circumstances. At the time of her passing, she had only recently returned to elite competition, having claimed a bronze medal at the 2025 Road World Championships.
What to look for next
- A formal cause of death pending autopsy and medical investigation.
- Details of tributes, memorials and how Australia’s sporting institutions will honour her legacy.
- How her passing might prompt further support or dialogue around athlete health, particularly among para-athletes recovering from major injury or medical challenges.
- The impact on teammates, future competitions and the broader para-cycling community.
The takeaway
Paige Greco’s death is not only a tragic loss for Australian sport, but for the entire Paralympic community. At 28, she had already achieved historic success, broken records and inspired many with her resilience and courage. She competed at the highest level while remaining humble and connected to those around her. Her legacy will endure as both a champion and a role model. Our thoughts are with her family, friends and everyone whose lives she touched.
