The incident occurred around 12.20pm during the race, which was taking place in the eastern part of the country. The victim, a 73-year-old Belgian cyclist, suffered a serious fall that resulted in severe injuries.
Despite the swift arrival of emergency services and immediate medical attention, the cyclist passed away at the scene. The public prosecutor’s office has been notified, and an investigation into the circumstances of the accident has been initiated. In order to facilitate the intervention of emergency services, the affected road was temporarily closed.
Eyewitnesses reported that the race came to a halt approximately 25 kilometres away from the finish line, in close proximity to Canach.
The Schleck Gran Fondo is part of the renowned UCI Gran Fondo World Series, previously known as the UCI World Cycling Tour. Established in 2011, this series encompasses a circuit of UCI-sanctioned road races held worldwide. Throughout the season, several qualifying events allow riders who finish in the top 20% of their age category to secure a spot in the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships, previously known as the UWCT Finals and UCI Masters Road World Championships.
At the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships, the victors of each age category are awarded the prestigious rainbow jersey, symbolising their achievement. These events are open to riders of all categories, catering to both competitive cyclists aiming for top positions and those striving to complete the race in the shortest possible time.
