Cyclist Gino Mader has died after crashing during the fifth stage of the Tour de Suisse.
The 26-year-old was involved in a crash with fellow rider Magnus Sheffield on the descent of the Abula Pass during Thursday’s stage.
He fell into a ravine, was resuscitated and airlifted to hospital where was later pronounced dead on Friday morning.
Mader’s Bahrain Victorious team paid tribute to a rider, who was a previous top-five finisher in the Vuelta a Espana and had been tipped for a strong showing at this year’s Tour de France after high finishes in the Paris-Nice and Tour de Romandie races this season.
In a statement, the team said: “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.”
Managing director Milan Erzen added: “We are devastated by the loss of our exceptional cyclist Gino Mader. His talent, dedication and enthusiasm were an inspiration to us all. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones, and our thoughts are with them during this difficult time.”
