André Drege, from Norway and who has been racing with UCI Continental outfit Team Coop-Repsol has today died after a crash on stage 4 at the Tour of Austria.
The 25-year-old crashed on a descent and has been pronounced dead, the race organisers confirmed in a statement.
"It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we have to announce the passing of André Drege," the race organisers said in a statement after the conclusion of the stage.
"On Saturday 6th July following a very serious crash during the descent of the Großglockner at stage 4 of the Tour of Austria, André crashed and sustained severe injuries.
"Our entire team is devastated by this tragic accident, and our thoughts and prayers are with André`s family and loved ones and his team Coop-Repsol, during this incredibly difficult time.
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"Our hearts are shattered. There's no words to describe our sorrow Our thoughts and prayers are with Andre's family, his friends, relatives, his teammates, and all who knew, loved and appreciated Andre."
Drege had only stepped up to full time racing at UCI level , with Team Coop, in 2022 for a first full season. And this year has level appeared to step up considerably as he took several wins in the early part of the season.
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He won the overall and two stages at Visit South Aegean Islands (2.2) in March and followed that up with a stage win and overall victory at Tour of Rhodes Powered by Rodos Palace (2.2), also in March. And in April he won stages both Circuit des Ardennes (2.2) and Tour du Loir et Cher (2.2).
The stage in Austria today ran to its conclusion and was won by Filippo Ganna (Ineos Grenadiers). But when news of the tragic death of a rider was confirmed after the stage end, the podium presentations were canceled out of respect.
Tributes have been paid to the 25-year-old, with many of the biggest teams in the sport issuing statements express their shock and upset and extending their sympathies to André Drege's family, friends and team mates.
"Heartbreaking news from Tour of Austria today," said Lidl-Trek. "We are sending all our love and strength to the friends, family and Team Coop Repsol teammates of André Drege."
Israel Premier Tech said: "We are devastated to learn of the passing of André Drege at the Tour of Austria today. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and everyone at Team Coop Repsol at this incredibly sad time."
EF Education–EasyPost added: “A loss felt in the entire cycling community. Our thoughts are with the friends, family and teammates of André Drege. Rest in peace, André.”
Movistar Team said: "Keeping everybody within Team Coop Repsol and André Drege's loved ones in our thoughts after a horrible tragedy at the Tour of Austria today. Big hugs from everyone here. Stay strong."
More to come.
