Olympic sailor Eya Guezguez of Tunisia has died in a training incident, the IOC announced on Monday. She was 17.
Guezguez was training with her twin sister Sarra alongside their national team on Sunday when their boat capsized due to strong winds. Eya died while Sarra survived.
Together, they competedat the Tokyo Olympics last year in 49er FX and finished 21st.
Thomas Bach, president of the International Olympic Committee, said he was shocked by the news.
"She was an inspiring talent and role model for her athletes' generation," Bach said.
"Eya Guezguez's participation at Tokyo 2020 alongside her twin sister Sarra will continue to motivate girls everywhere. Our thoughts are with her family, friends and the Olympic community in Tunisia."
Eya Guezguez, 16, Tunisian Olympic Windsurfer, has passed away today after an accident at practice. Eya, along with her twin, Sarra, were the Youngest female athletes at the #Tokyo2020 Olympics... May she Rest In Peace 😔 pic.twitter.com/Pvt6lGEscq
The Tunisian National Olympic Committee (CNOT) said Eya was training for upcoming international and regional sailing conditions when she tragically died.
"May Allah rest the deceased with his mercy and dwell her in paradise and grant her family, relatives, and the sports family, all of them have patience and solace," CNOT said in a statement.
