Swiss Cyclist Gino Mäder Dies After Tour de Suisse Crash
Swiss cyclist Gino Mäder died on Friday, June 11, after crashing and falling down a ravine during a descent at the Tour de Suisse. The 26-year-old Mäder crashed on a fast downhill road approaching the end of the mountainous fifth stage into La Punt. Medical staff who reached Mäder found him motionless in water. They performed CPR before he was airlifted to the hospital. However, he couldn’t make it through his final and biggest challenge and passed away.
Mäder’s Death Announced Before the Scheduled Start of the Sixth Stage
The Tour de Suisse is a preparation race ahead of next month’s Tour de France. Mäder’s death was announced about 30 minutes before the scheduled start of the sixth stage in the eight-day race. The start was delayed. The route for Thursday’s stage was later criticized by world champion Remco Evenepoel, who finished 10th and is fourth in the overall standings.
Second Rider Also Crashed at the Same Spot
A second rider also crashed at the same spot. Magnus Sheffield of the United States sustained a concussion and bruises and was treated at a local hospital. Mäder was one of Switzerland’s best young riders. He won a stage at the 2021 Giro d’Italia and placed fifth overall in the Spanish Vuelta that year. He also was fifth in the Paris-Nice stage race in March.
Tour de Suisse Organizers Express Their Condolences
“We are heartbroken,” Tour de Suisse organizers 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 entire team is devastated by this tragic accident, and their thoughts and prayers are with Gino’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
Conclusion
The death of Swiss cyclist Gino Mäder has left the cycling world in shock. The tragic accident has highlighted the risks involved in the sport, especially during high-speed descents. The Tour de Suisse organizers have expressed their condolences and praised Mäder for his excellent riding skills and wonderful personality. The cycling community will remember him as a shining light of the sport who left us too soon.