Sam Gardiner, who rose to fame after participating in the BBC travel series Race Across the World, has tragically passed away at the age of 24 following a car accident. The incident took place on Monday, 26 May, when Sam’s car veered off the A34 in Gatley, near Cheadle, Greater Manchester. Greater Manchester Police confirmed that Sam had been driving a white Volkswagen Golf R estate at the time. The vehicle left the road, overturned, and eventually came to rest on its side. Authorities later identified Sam Gardiner as the sole driver involved in the crash. Following the heartbreaking news, Sam’s family released an emotional statement: “We are devastated by the loss of our beloved son Sam in a terrible accident. 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.” They further shared: “Sam was adored by his family. As a son, brother and nephew, he was loyal, funny and fiercely protective. He did Race Across The World in 2019, which 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. He found great happiness working as a landscape gardener on the west coast of Scotland.” Sam appeared on Race Across the World alongside his mother, Jo Gardiner, in the show’s first season, which aired in March 2020. Their journey took them across stunning landscapes in Mexico and Argentina, winning hearts with their strong bond and adventurous spirit. News of Sam’s death has prompted an outpouring of tributes online. One fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “RIP Sam Gardiner. Too young too go. Car accident,” while another posted, “Devastated to hear the news about Sam Gardiner from #raceacrosstheworld.” TV and film critic Matthew Rimmer also expressed his sorrow, tweeting, “This is very sad news. R.I.P. Sam Gardiner.” May his soul rest in peace!