Andre Drege, a Norwegian cyclist, has died after a crash on a mountain road descent at the Tour of Austria.
The 25-year-old Team Coop–Repsol rider, who had won seven races this year, fell while on a high-alpine descent on the Grossglockner.
Fellow cyclists paid immediate tribute to Drege, pointing out that he was set to ride for Jayco Alula’s WorldTour team next year.
The race organiser confirmed he had died in a fall en route to Heiligenblut but further details of the accident are not yet known. The stage was won by Italian Filippo Ganna (Ineos), but the award ceremony was cancelled due to the tragic event.
Tour of Austria officials said in a statement: “It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we have to announce the passing of Andre Drege. On Saturday 6th July following a very serious crash during the descent of the Grossglockner at stage 4 of the Tour of Austria, Andre crashed and sustained severe injuries.
“Our entire team is devastated by this tragic accident, and our thoughts and prayers are with Andre’s family and loved ones, his team Coop-Repsol, during this incredibly difficult time.”
Austrian media reported that Drege crashed during a descent in the 151.7km sixth stage from St Johann Alpendorf to Kals. The stage featured two climbs higher than 2,400m in the middle of the route high in the Austrian Alps.
At least two fatal accidents have previously overshadowed the Tour of Austria – in 1962 and 1973. Drege had enjoyed a successful season on the road, with several wins on his CV. There was widespread excitement at his prospects on the professional tour.
On April 15, Coop-Repsol had celebrated Drege’s impressive form, tweeting: “WHAT A START to the season we are having! Yesterday Andre Drege took his 7th UCI-win this season, and we are only in April.”
Rival teams and riders paid tribute to Drege, saying he had a “wonderful career” ahead of him. “A loss felt in the entire cycling community,” tweeted American team EF Education–EasyPost. “Our thoughts are with the friends, family and teammates of Andre Drege. Rest in peace, Andre.”
Belgian team Intermarche-Wanty posted: “We are heartbroken to learn the passing of our fellow colleague cyclist Andre Drege, who had a wonderful career ahead of him. We send our sincere condolences to his family and his team.”
Source Agencies
