Go-karting prodigy, 18, killed in tragic Swiss nightclub fire as tributes pour in

The 18-year-old go-kart driver was one of 40 victims of a devastating New Year’s Eve fire in Switzerland.

The fire, thought to have been caused by waiters shaking champagne bottles filled with fireworks towards the ceiling, spread to Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana at 1.30 am on January 1.

Swiss police confirmed on Monday that they had identified all 40 people who died at the prestigious ski resort; Tragically, more than half of the victims were 18 or younger.

One of them was revealed to be Joaquim van Thuyne, a promising young go-kart racer who shows ‘great promise’ in the sport, the FIA ​​said in a statement.

The heartbreaking tribute on Tuesday continued: ‘The FIA ​​has learned with deep sadness that 18-year-old Swiss karting driver Joaquim van Thuyne died in a tragic fire in Crans-Montana on New Year’s Eve.

‘Joaquim’s professionalism, kindness and passion for the sport left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him and competed alongside him. We join the global motorsport community to express our deep sorrow at this difficult time.

The fire, thought to have been caused by waiters shaking champagne bottles filled with fireworks towards the ceiling, spread to Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana at 1.30 am on January 1.

‘Competing in Switzerland early in his career, Joaquim has shown his love for the sport and shown great promise, including a top ten finish in the highly competitive x30 Challenge Switzerland.

‘Having competed with the Swiss Hutless team and also being a member of the FC Lutry youth football team with whom he was on New Year’s Eve, we know how deeply this loss will be felt by so many.

‘The FIA ​​extends its sincere condolences to Joaquim’s family, friends and teammates, as well as to all the victims of this devastating tragedy.’

Swiss authorities confirmed that 119 more people were injured in the deadly fire, with some still fighting for their lives.

Unfortunately, one of those who lost their lives was 18-year-old ‘hero’ Benjamin Johnson, a young boxer who trained at the Lausanne Boxing Club and was described as a ‘promising athlete’.

It is believed that Benjamin died tragically while trying to save his friend from the flames.

Amir Orfia, president of the Swiss Boxing Federation, praised the teenager for making the ultimate sacrifice in a statement this week.

‘According to eyewitnesses, he lost his life while saving his friend, thus ensuring his survival. “This ultimate act of self-sacrifice perfectly reflects who he was: someone who was always helping others,” it read.

Benjamin Johnson trained at the Lausanne Boxing Club and died saving a friend, according to the Swiss Boxing Federation.

Emanuele Galeppini was a talented junior golfer who rose through the ranks with wins and podium places at junior events around the world.

SBF’s post on social media reads: ‘Benjamin left us a hero by helping his friend. “Our thoughts are with his family, loved ones and all the victims of this national tragedy,” he said.

Another of the victims has been confirmed as 15-year-old Charlotte Niddam, who attended Hertfordshire-based Immanuel College in Hertfordshire, as well as the Free Jewish School in north-west London, according to reports.

Italian media also announced that 16-year-old golf prodigy Emanuele Galeppini was among those who died in the fire. The Italian Golf Federation commemorated ‘the young athlete who carried with him passion and original values’.

Local police announced on Sunday that they had opened a criminal investigation against the club’s French owners, Jacques Moretti, 49, and his wife Jessica, 40.

The couple are being investigated on suspicion of manslaughter by negligence, bodily harm and arson.