Young Belgian cyclist dies after mid race collision

A 19-year-old Belgian cyclist has died after a collision with a van during a race.  Stef Loos, from Dessel, was one of three riders involved in the crash during the Alfred Gadenne Memorial on Sunday (March 17).

A large group of riders were sent the wrong way by a marshal, leading to three colliding with a van at a junction, according to reports.

“Very tragic news. Our rider Stef Loos, a promising rider with the team, was the victim of a severe accident," said team leader Jef Roberts.

“Together with two other riders, Stef was hit by a van and suffered serious injuries.”

Loos was taken to hospital where he later died, having suffered severe brain trauma and internal injuries.

The cycling community in Belgium suffered a devastating loss with the passing of Stef Loos. The thoughts of everyone at Belgian Cycling are with his family, friends and team-mates at this sad time. pic.twitter.com/1E6GO0SX20

— Belgian Cycling (@BELCycling) March 18, 2019

The Brussels Times