In a devastating turn of events, 25-year-old Norwegian cyclist Andre Drege has lost his life in an accident during the Tour of Austria. The incident occurred as Drege was descending the Grossglockner, Austria’s highest mountain, according to the International Cycling Union (UCI).

The UCI expressed its sorrow in a statement on social media platform X, saying, “The UCI is devastated to learn of the death of professional cyclist Andre Drege at the Tour of Austria. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and teammates.”

Local authorities are treating the crash as an accident and have launched an investigation into its cause. Norwegian TV 2 reported that police are working to determine the circumstances that led to the tragedy.

Dredge, a rising star in the cycling world, has been with the Norwegian team Coop-Repsol since 2021. He had already claimed seven victories this year, marking a promising career cut tragically short.

In response to the incident, race organisers cancelled the post-race presentations as a mark of respect. Drege’s team, Coop-Repsol, released a statement expressing their devastation and extending their thoughts and prayers to his family and loved ones.

“Andre’s family has requested privacy as they mourn their loss, and we kindly ask that their wishes be respected,” the team added.