The Swiss professional cyclist Gino Mäder has succumbed to his injuries after his serious fall on the fifth stage of the Tour de Suisse. This was announced by his team Bahrain-Victorious on Friday. The 26-year-old fell on Thursday on the descent from the Albula Pass to the destination of La Punt, fell into a ravine and, according to the organizers, was then revived.
“We are devastated by the loss of our exceptional driver, Gino Mäder. His talent, dedication and enthusiasm have been an inspiration to all of us,” said team manager Milan Erzen. “Not only was he an extremely talented rider, but he was also a great person off the bike.” The team will drive in his honor.
During the preparation race for the Tour de France, the American Magnus Sheffield also fell on Thursday and was also taken to the hospital. He suffered a concussion and bruises.
World Champion Remco Evenepoel from Belgium was among the drivers who criticized the organizers because of the route. It wasn’t a smart idea to place the finish of such a stage after a descent, said the 23-year-old, according to the Swiss newspaper “Blick”. “But you obviously still need more spectacle. Something just has to happen for you to react,” said Evenepoel.
Note: This article has been updated.
