“Before the sea took him into its embrace, he made sure his little daughter was saved.”
With these emotional words, a friend of 76-year-old Dimi Mavropoulos described the final moments of the well-known businessman, who died during the stormy conditions at Cape Greco while aboard his boat.
The friend’s post captures both the dramatic moments of the tragedy and the character of a man he described as “one of the most loved people”. The two men had known each other since 1969 and shared a friendship spanning decades.
Mavropoulos’ death has caused deep sadness across Cyprus, as he was particularly well known in Limassol and in the world of Cypriot motorsport. His name had been associated for decades with rally racing, where he achieved numerous championship titles.
Cyprus Automobile Federation pays tribute
The Cyprus Automobile Federation expressed its sorrow over his death.
“We learned with deep sadness of the sudden death of Dimi Mavropoulos, a multiple rally champion and one of the most important figures in Cypriot motorsport,” the federation said in a statement.
It added that his long and distinguished career in racing, as well as his contribution to the automotive sector, would remain unforgettable.
“He honoured Limassol and Cyprus”
Limassol Municipality also paid tribute to Mavropoulos, describing him as one of the most important Cypriot rally drivers of his generation.
“As one of the most important Cypriot rally drivers of his era, he honoured Limassol and Cyprus in Cypriot and international competitions,” the municipality said.
It added that Mavropoulos later transformed his passion for cars into a lasting legacy by creating the Cyprus Historic and Classic Motor Museum in Limassol.
Investigation into tragedy continues
Authorities continue investigating the exact circumstances surrounding the tragedy at Cape Greco and the causes of the 76-year-old’s death.
According to police, officers from Ayia Napa Police Station returned to the scene at first light and began further investigations.
Boats that were caught in the rough seas remain at the centre of the investigation.
Friends, acquaintances and people from the motorsport community have been paying tribute to Dimi Mavropoulos through social media posts, expressing their grief over his tragic death.
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