The cycling community is in mourning after a tragic accident.
André Drege, a professional cyclist from Norway, has died after losing control of his bike during the final stage of the Tour of Austria, race organizers confirmed. He was 25.
“On Saturday 6th July following a very serious crash during the descent of the Großglockner at stage 4 of the Tour of Austria,” the statement posted to social media read, “André crashed and sustained severe injuries.”
The note continued, “Our entire team is devastated by this tragic accident, and our thoughts and prayers are with André’s family and loved ones, his team Coop-Repsol, during this incredibly difficult time.”
Drege’s team also confirmed his passing on social media, adding, “André’s family has requested privacy as they mourn their loss, and we kindly ask that their wishes are respected.”
According to local outlet Kronen Zeitung, a rescue helicopter responded to the accident, which occurred when Drege crashed on the descent from Grossglockner to Heiligenblut. Following the athlete’s death, the final stage of the race was canceled and instead, cyclists participated in a memorial ride in his honor.
“After the wishes of André’s father and closest family, his teammates and the entire team, a memorial ride will be held today,” Drege’s team Coop-Repsol wrote on X July 7. “This gives the cycling family the opportunity to come to terms with what happened and to honour André Drege’s memory. For André, forever in our hearts.”
Tour of Austria Director Thomas Pupp also spoke about Drege’s passing. “For my person, I’m not only standing here as the tour director, I am standing more as a father as a father of three,” he said in an emotional video. “And I can deeply imagine what this tragic accident yesterday means for the family of Andre. It’s so unfair, a young life full of positive prospects and desires and wishes and hopes ended so dramatically."
The cyclist's accident occured after a successful start to his season, having already won seven road races. Drege had also taken home the overall win at the Visit South Aegean Islands race and at the International Tour of Rhodes.
Following his death, a number of tributes and well wishes were shared among the cycling community.
“Heartbreaking news from Tour of Austria today,” team Lidl-Trek wrote on X. “We are sending all our love and strength to the friends, family and @TeamCoopRepsol teammates of André Drege.”
Belgian team Intermarché–Wanty also wrote, “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.”