DPA
· 17.06.2023
Following the accidental death of Gino Mäder, the Swiss cycling team Tudor Pro Cycling and the Belgian cycling team Intermarché-Circus-Wanty have cancelled their participation in the Tour de Suisse. This was announced by both teams before the start of the seventh stage from Tübach to Weinfelden.
The Swiss racing team of cycling legend Fabian Cancellara announced its withdrawal "after careful consideration and discussions with both the riders and the support staff". The team, for which the German Miká Heming was not in action at the Tour of Switzerland, also explained via Twitter: "In these difficult circumstances, this is the humane way for us to respect the feelings of our riders and pay respect to Gino".
"Following the tragic accident of Gino Mäder and after discussions with our riders and our staff, Team Intermarché-Circus-Wanty has decided to leave the Tour de Suisse. Our priority is the well-being of our riders," the Belgian team announced on Twitter shortly afterwards. Mäder's Bahrain-Victorious team had already announced its withdrawal.
Mäder died on Friday. The day before, the Swiss rider had been seriously injured in an accident on a descent a few kilometres before the finish. He had to be resuscitated after falling into a ravine.
Friday's stage was cancelled and instead the professional cyclists commemorated Mäder with a memorial ride. However, the tour will continue in consultation with Mäder's family as well as the teams and riders.
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