Bellis in critical condition after scooter accident in Italy

Britain’s Jonny Bellis is in a critical condition after an accident while riding a scooter near Quarrata in Italy.

According to reports in the local Il Tirreno newspaper, the 21 year-old from the Isle of Man was found at the side of the road by a security guard at 3.30am on Saturday morning.

He was bleeding heavily from the nose but was later found to have suffered serious head injuries. He was taken to a local hospital and then transferred to the specialist Careggi hospital in Florence.  

Great Britain Under 23 Academy coach Max Sciandri is with him and Bellis’ parents have also traveled to Italy.  

According to il Tirreno, Bellis was returning to his flat in Quarrata on his scooter. Police are investigating the accident but it is unclear if Bellis was the victim of a hit and run because no skid marks were found. Bellis was wearing a helmet.   

British Cycling’s Performance Director Dave Brailsford said in a statement: “All our focus and attention right now is on Johnny and his family and ensuring that they are looked after and given the best possible care at this time”

After being part of the Great Britain Under 23 Academy and finishing third in the 2007 world championships, he turned professional with the Saxo Bank after a successful spell as a stagiaire.

Saxo Bank team manager Bjarne Riis said in a statement: "We are saddened by the news of Jonathan's accident, but we know that he is in good hands at the hospital in Florence. Our thoughts and hopes go out to Jonathan, his family and friends"