Sports
Tragic Death at Tour of Austria Leads to Cancelled Final Stage and Condolence Ride
A tragic incident at the Tour of Austria has led to the cancellation of the final stage of the race, with a solemn condolence ride now planned in honor of André Drege, a rider from Coop-Repsol.
Drege sadly lost his life during stage 4 of the Tour of Austria, following a fall on the descent from Großglockner, a moment that has shaken the cycling community.
Organisers, led by Tour of Austria director Thomas Pupp, made the decision to forego the final stage and hold a special memorial ride instead, as a way to remember Drege and support his family and team during this difficult time.
Uno-X Mobility, a fellow Norwegian team, will pay tribute to Drege at the upcoming stage of the Tour de France, honouring his memory and the impact he had in the cycling world.
Details surrounding the tragic crash are still under investigation by local authorities, with Jaka Primožič of Hrinkow Advaric, who witnessed the incident, sharing his deep sorrow and disbelief at the unforeseen turn of events.
Among the outpouring of condolences and support, Tadej Pogačar, a prominent figure in the cycling community, emphasized the need for unity and care within the sport during challenging times like these.
The scheduled final stage of the Tour of Austria will now be replaced by a commemorative ride, starting in Kufsten, to remember André Drege and honor his legacy in the cycling world.