Former Race Across the World contestant Sam Gardiner has died following a car crash in Manchester.
The 24-year-old was driving a white Volkswagen Golf R estate on the A34 in Gatley, near Cheadle, on Monday night when his vehicle left the road and rolled before landing on its side.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed that Gardiner was the only person in the vehicle during the single-vehicle accident on May 26. He died on Thursday from injuries sustained in the crash.
No other vehicles were involved in the incident. The accident occurred on Monday evening as Gardiner was travelling along the A34 carriageway.
Gardiner had appeared on the BBC competition programme with his mother Jo Gardiner, with their series broadcast in March 2020.
Sam’s family released a statement expressing their devastation at the loss.
“We are devastated by the loss of our beloved son Sam in a terrible accident,” his parents Jo and Andrew said.
“Sam left us far too soon, and whilst words will never fully capture the light, joy and energy he brought into our lives, we hold on to the memories that made him so special.”
The family described Sam as “adored by his family” and noted his qualities as “a son, brother and nephew, he was loyal, funny and fiercely protective.”
They said that Race Across The World “opened his eyes to the wonder of adventure and travel.”
“He was willing to go wherever the trail might lead and he touched everyone he met on the road,” the statement continued.
The family added that “Sam brought warmth, laughter and a smattering of chaos wherever he went. He leaves behind a huge hole in our hearts.”
During the series, the mother and son duo travelled across Mexico and Argentina.
A spokesperson for the show’s producers extended condolences to Gardiner’s family, highlighting the transformative impact of the trip on Sam and Jo.
They noted his energy, love, and determination during their adventures from Mexico to Argentina.
The programme saw contestants race across countries without flying, relying on ground transport and limited budgets to reach their destinations.
Sam worked as a landscape gardener on Scotland’s west coast, where the family said “he found great happiness” in his profession.
He is survived by his parents Jo and Andrew, his brothers William and Charlie, and his stepmother Justine.
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The news of Sam’s death has prompted tributes on social media from fans of the programme.
One viewer wrote on X: “RIP Sam Gardiner. Too young too go. Car accident.” Another fan shared: “Devastated to hear the news about Sam Gardiner from #raceacrosstheworld.”
TV and film critic Matthew Rimmer also paid tribute on X, writing: “This is very sad news. R.I.P. Sam Gardiner.”
The family has requested privacy as they grieve and remember Sam’s life.
