U23 Paris-Roubaix winner dies after road accident, aged 22

The cycling world mourns the tragic death of Tijl De Decker. The promising Belgium cyclist has been pronounced dead at 22.

Picture credit: @lotto_dstny / X

The rider from Lotto-Dstny's reserve team crashed into the back of a car during a training last Wednesday.

Picture credit: @tijldedecker / Instagram

The rider was subsequently transported to the hospital in the city of Lier with serious injuries.

Picture credit: @tijldedecker / Instagram

There he underwent immediate surgery, after which he was transported to the Antwerp University Hospital.

Photo: @tijldedecker / Instagram

De Decker was in a coma, but bad news soon followed.

Picture credit: @tijldedecker / Instagram

On the morning of August 25, he died from his injuries, Lotto-Dstny announced on 'X' (Twitter).

Picture credit: website lotto_dstny

"We are devastated by the loss of our cyclist," CEO Stéphane Heulot (pictured) said on the team website.

"Tijl showed big progression this year and we believed in his growth margin. Stepping up to the pro team was a logical choice. Unfortunately he will never turn pro and we will always remember him as a talented young rider and a warm and friendly person off the bike," Heulot added.

"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," Lotto-Dstny wrote on X.

De Decker achieved great results in his short career, the absolute highlight being victory in Paris-Roubaix for U23s. Unfortunately, that will be his last big win.

Picture credit: website lotto_dstny