Sports

Cycling World Mourns The Passing Of Rider Gino Mader After Crash Tour De Suisse

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The world of sports is often full of joy.

Sports serve as a distraction from the monotony and struggles that often come with what we deem the “real world.”

But sadly, the world of sports can also sometimes be fill with tragedy, and that was the case on Friday morning.

Following a crash during the fifth stage of the annual Tour de Suisse, 26-year-old Swiss cyclist Gino Mader of team Bahrain Victorious has sadly passed away.

Mader was descending having just climbed a mountain during the race when he and one other rider crashed off the side of a ravine. Mader fell into a drainage area and needed to be resuscitated on site. He was then airlifted to a local hospital, but sadly succumb to his injuries.

The other rider, 21-year-old American Magnus Sheffield, was diagnosed with a concussion but was in stable condition.

“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,” Mader’s team said in a statement.

“Managing Director Milan Erzen commented this morning:” ‘We are devastated by the loss of our exceptional cyclist, Gino Mäder. His talent, dedication, and enthusiasm were an inspiration to us all. Not only was he an extremely talented cyclist, but a great person off the bike. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones, and our thoughts are with them during this difficult time. Bahrain Victorious will race in his honour, keeping his memory on every road we race. We are determined to show the spirit and passion Gino displayed, and he will always remain an integral part of our team.'”

Members of the cycling community quickly flooded the internet with tributes.

Mader was passionate about climate activism. And fans quickly began flooding a charity that plants trees in Africa, Justdiggit, which he vocally supported.

It’s a sobering reminder of the reality and danger of the sports we love.