Cocky cyclist hit with instant karma after celebrating race win metres from the finish line - as bike shatters into pieces
The incident took place during the final stage of the Iraqi Cycling Championships, which had more than 20 cycling clubs representing capital Baghdad and the rest of the governorates.
A statement from Central Cycling Federation said that Al-Saniya Club won the overall individual race for the junior category, which was over a distance of 45km, followed by Al-Nidhal Clu. Third place went to Erbil Club.
But the main takeaway from the race was the chaotic ending, which saw a cocky rider collapse to the floor.
The star, as seen in footage shared by Barlaman Today, was a good few metres ahead of their competitors, and was rapidly closing in on the line when the realisation kicked in that they were set to be the victor.
In response, they sat up in their seat, putting their hands out as if to begin their celebrations - but things didn't last long.
The leading competitor in a cycling race in Erbil, Iraq began celebrating victory too early. As he lifted his arms in triumph before crossing the finish line, he lost balance and fell, allowing another cyclist to overtake him and claim first place. #ErbilRaceFail #TooSoonVictory pic.twitter.com/gBfeUpqr3j
— Barlaman Today (@BarlamanToday) August 4, 2025
A cocky cyclist suffered instant karma after celebrating what looked like an inevitable race win too early
Within seconds, the rider lost their balance and their bike collapsed beneath them as they hit the deck with the chasing pack closing in at pace.
As the rider's bike fell apart, other competitors scrambled to avoid them on the floor, with one dodging the bike but hitting the rider themselves and flying over the handlebars.
They did manage to cross the line, seemingly in third, and, luckily, didn't appear in too much pain.
Two other riders managed to dodge the obstacles, crossing the line, while spectators ran onto the road to try and order other riders to avoid those injured.
They all managed to do just that, before more spectators ran on to help those who had fallen, with the two riders sat on the floor in pain.
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