The Tour of Austria was struck by tragedy on Saturday with the death of Norwegian cyclist André Drege. The 25-year-old from Team Coop Repsol crashed on the descent from Großglockner and succumbed to his injuries. The police have started an investigation, and the continuation of the race is uncertain. Drivers who were nearby at the time of the accident are being questioned, and Drege’s bike will be examined.
The incident happened during a high-speed descent, and emergency services were called immediately. Several team leaders and officials will decide if the final stage will proceed. Tour director Thomas Pupp expressed his condolences, and the Tour’s organization held a meeting with all team leaders and the UCI. They unanimously agreed that Drege’s family and team should decide about the final stage.
Top riders like Tadej Pogacar and Alexander Kristoff expressed their shock and sadness over Drege’s death. The UCI also expressed their condolences on social media. Drege’s death follows the recent fatalities of Gino Mäder in the Tour de Suisse and a 17-year-old Italian cyclist in the Oberösterreich Junior Tour.
The tragic event overshadowed the sporting events of the day. The victory ceremony was canceled, and many cyclists and team members were visibly distraught. Drege had already secured seven wins this year and was rumored to be joining the World Tour team Jayco. The stage win in East Tyrol was claimed by Filippo Ganna, with Felix Großschartner as the best Austrian, finishing ninth.