Berkin Usta, a young Turkish Olympic skier, passed away on March 27, 2025, at age 24, in a devastating hotel fire at the Kervansaray Hotel in Uludag, Bursa, Turkey.
On top of that, the tragic incident claimed the lives of not only Berkin Usta but also his 57-year-old father, Yahya Ust, a former national alpine skier.
The father-son duo succumbed to smoke inhalation, while his mother, Fikriye Usta, survived the tragedy.
Reportedly, the blaze that broke out in the early hours of March 27, 2025, was sparked by a barbecue fire left unattended by staff, which quickly spread through the six-story building.
Despite efforts to escape, Yahya and Berkin succumbed to smoke inhalation.
His mother, Fikriye, who survived the tragedy, was found unconscious and rushed to Çekirge State Hospital before being transferred to Yüksek İhtisas Education and Research Hospital for advanced intensive care.
As of recent reports, her condition remains critical, with her life hanging in the balance.
Berkin Usta’s Father, Yahya, Was a National Alpine Skier!
Berkin’s father, Yahya Usta, was a respected figurehead of the Turkish skiing fraternity. Yahya, born in 1968, was a national alpine skier who competed at a high standard in his early days.
After retiring from competitive skiing, he transitioned into a leadership role. He served as the president of the Turkish Ski and Snowboard Teachers Association.
At the time of his passing, he was an entrepreneur; Yahya owned Kervansaray Ski & Snowboard Center. Previously, he also owned a Cafe Katal Yuvası.
His passion for the sport was evident in his commitment as he helped many young aspiring skiers, including his son.
Yahya introduced Berkin to skiing at young age of two and a half. As a former athlete and coach, Yahya provided Berkin with technical expertise.
With his father’s help, Berkin grew up to compete in the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing.
Yahya’s influence extended beyond his family; he was a respected figure in Bursa, a region known for its ski culture.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Berkin Usta studied International Trade and Business at Istanbul Bilgi University.
- Before the Winter Olympics, Berkin competed at the 2017 European Youth Olympic Winter Festival in Erzurum, Turkey. He placed 21st in the giant slalom.
