Swiss cyclist Gino Mader has died in a horrific crash in the Tour of Switzerland after he plunged into a ravine.
The 26-year-old of the Bahrain-Victorious cycling team was airlifted to hospital on Thursday after he rode off the road at high-speed on the descent of a mountain on the fifth stage of the tour.
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Mader was swiftly reached by doctors, was revived and then airlifted to hospital.
A second rider the American Magnus Sheffield also fell and was also hospitalised with concussion.
“The rider (Mader) went off the road and fell into a ravine, where he was promptly assisted by the race doctor. Mader was found unresponsive, resuscitated at the scene and then transported by helicopter to Chur Hospital,” his team said.
But after doctors fought to save the cyclists life overnight, he succumbed to his injuries.
Mader’s death was announced by his team after midday on Friday.
“It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we have to announce the passing of Gino Mader,” read a statement from the Bahrain Victorious team.
“On Friday 16th June, following a very serious crash during stage 5 of the Tour de Suisse, Gino lost his battle to recover from the severe injuries he sustained.
“Our entire team is devastated by this tragic accident, and our thoughts and prayers are with Gino’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
“Despite the best efforts of the phenomenal staff at Chur hospital, Gino couldn’t make it through this, his final and biggest challenge, and at 11:30am we said goodbye to one of the shining lights of our team.
“Gino was an extraordinary athlete, an example of determination, a valued member of our team and the whole cycling community. His talent, dedication, and passion for the sport has inspired us all.”
Mader’s competitors found out 30 minutes before the scheduled start of racing for the day and the event has been postponed indefinitely.
“We are heartbroken,” Tour de Suisse said in a statement.
“Gino, you’ve been an excellent rider but even more a wonderful person. Always smiling and making people happy around you.”
The managing director of the team Milan Erzen led tributes to the rider.
“We are devastated by the loss of our exceptional cyclist, Gino Mader,” Erzen said. “His talent, dedication, and enthusiasm were an inspiration to us all. Not only was he an extremely talented cyclist, but a great person off the bike.”
Former world champion Alejandro Valverde wrote: “There are no words. Terrible news. My support and love to his colleagues in @BHRVictorious as well as family and friends.”
The race was won after Spain’s Juan Ayuso made a white-knuckle 90kph descent, while race favourite and world champion Remco Evenepoel was less daredevil in his own downhill racing.
“I don’t think anyone today was happy with that finish,” said the Belgian who fell into a ravine himself two years ago, breaking his pelvis.
