Young golfer killed in Swiss resort fire being remembered at Dubai event

Black ribbons to be worn and minute’s silence to be held at Dubai Invitational

A promising young golfer who was among the 40 people who tragically lost their lives in a bar fire in Crans Montana in Switzerland on New Year’s Day is being remembered at this week’s Dubai Invitational.

The DP World Tour event at Dubai Creek, where both Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood are in the field, is being played in remembrance of Emanuele Galeppini, a 17-year-old Italian golfer and the host club’s incoming under-16s’ captain.

Emanuele Galeppini died in the Crans Montana bar fire on  New Year’s Dayplaceholder image
Emanuele Galeppini died in the Crans Montana bar fire on New Year’s Day | Italian Golf Federation

A DP World Tour statement read: “The loss of Emanuele and all those who died has left a profound mark on the golfing community and beyond. Our thoughts are with their families, friends, and everyone affected by this tragedy.

Black ribbons being made available

“As a mark of respect, black ribbons will be available for players, caddies, and staff to wear throughout the tournament, and a minute’s silence will be observed during the first round on Thursday at 13:30, with the timing agreed in consultation with the Galeppini family.”

Galeppini, who attended a Swiss International School in Dubai, was ranked 3,408th in the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) at the time of his death, having reached a high of 2,440th.

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