‘Shocked and heartbroken’: Cyclist dead after horrific incident
The cycling world has ben left “shocked and heartbroken” over the death of a 25-year-old rider following a sickening incident.
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Norwegian rider Andre Drege has died after crashing during the Tour of Austria.
Tour officials on Sunday confirmed the 25-year-old died as a result of the injuries he suffered in a tragic high speed crash.
The Coop Repsol team rider had joined the leading group on one of Austria’s highest roads in the Grossglockner region on the fourth and penultimate stage of the race, when he fell, the organisers said in a statement.
The podium ceremony for Saturday’s stage was cancelled with a decision to be taken on whether Sunday’s final stage will go ahead.
“It’s difficult to understand what has happened, we’re all in shock, it’s very sad,” said Slovenian Tadej Pogacar, currently leading the Tour de France.
“In the world of cycling, we all have to look out for each other and take care of each other.”
Drege had a successful season on the road and was tipped for a career on the professional tour.
Tributes quickly poured in across the sport following the sad news of his passing.
American team EF Education–EasyPost posted: “A loss felt in the entire cycling community,” tweeted American team EF Education–EasyPost. “Our thoughts are with the friends, family and teammates of André Drege. Rest in peace, André.”
Belgian team Intermarche-Wanty said: “We are heartbroken to learn the passing of our fellow colleague cyclist André Drege, who had a wonderful career ahead of him.
“We send our sincere condolences to his family and his team.”
Union Cycliste Internationale wrote: “The UCI is devastated to learn of the death of professional cyclist André Drege at the Tour of Austria.
“Our thoughts are with his family, friends and teammates.”
Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team added: “We’re shocked and heartbroken by the devastating news from the Tour of Austria.
“Sending our deepest condolences and strength to the friends, family and teammates of André Drege. May he rest in peace.”
Last year, a 17-year-old Italian died while racing downhill in a regional junior race in Austria.
Swiss rider Gino Mader, 26, suffered a fatal fall during the Tour of Switzerland in June 2023.
The first half of this season has been marked by serious falls in the peloton.
Originally published as ‘Shocked and heartbroken’: Cyclist dead after horrific incident
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