Belgian cyclist Tijl De Decker has died following a training accident, his team announced on Friday. He was 22 years old.
"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tijl De Decker, following a training accident past Wednesday," Lotto-Dstny wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "The team is heartbroken by this news and sends all of its love and thoughts to Tijl's family and loved ones in this incredibly difficult time."
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tijl De Decker, following a training accident past Wednesday.
The team is heartbroken by this news and sends all of its love and thoughts to Tijl’s family and loved ones in this incredibly difficult time ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Sq8HnndiJF — Lotto Dstny (@lotto_dstny) August 25, 2023
On Wednesday, Lotto-Dstny announced that De Decker had violently crashed into the back of a car during a training session. He subsequently underwent surgery in Lier before being transferred to Antwerp University Hospital, where he was placed in a medically-induced coma.
De Decker won the Paris-Roubaix road race in the U23 category earlier this year. He signed a professional contract with Lotto-Dstny in July.
Lotto-Dstny riders will wear a black armband during third stage of the Renewi Tour race this Friday to commemorate their team-mate's passing.
