The 26-year-old Bahrain Victorious rider crashed on a high-speed descent on stage five between Fiesch and La Punt on June 15, after a grueling day marked by three climbs of over 2,000 metres.
Cycling village mourns cyclist Gino Maeder
Race organisers said Maeder was found in a ravine below the road, "resuscitated immediately and then airlifted to hospital in Chur". But the following day, "Gino lost his battle to recover from the serious injuries he suffered", the Bahrain Victorious team said in a statement.
"Despite the best efforts of the medical staff at Chur Hospital, Gino could not overcome his final and greatest challenge, and at 11:30am we said goodbye to one of our best riders. Our entire team is devastated by this tragic accident, and our thoughts and prayers are with Gino's family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time," Bahrain Victorious added in a statement. As a result of Bahrain Victorious' death, stage 6 has been declared void, although riders will still ride the route as a tribute.
The location where Gino Maeder had his accident
Maeder had a strong start to the season, finishing fifth in Paris-Nice. Two-time Tour de France champion Tadej Pogacar led them off, posting on Instagram: "Rest in peace. I will miss you". Slovenian rider and recent Giro d'Italia winner Primoz Roglic said after hearing the news: "I am speechless". Former Tour de France champion Geraint Thomas said: "I can't believe what I'm reading. What a sad day. My condolences to all who knew and loved Gino."
Earlier, American Magnus Sheffield had a similar accident, during the most difficult stage of the race, which included many steep climbs. The Ineos-Grenadiers rider was hospitalized with "bruises and concussion", organizers said. On June 15, world champion Remco Evenepoel criticized the competition on such a dangerous road.
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