Mourning for Belgian cycling talent: Tijl De Decker dies after training accident
Thomas Goldmann
· 25.08.2023
Lotto Dstny statement on the death of Tijl De Decker
"It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Tijl De Decker, following a training accident on Wednesday. The team is heartbroken by this news and sends all its love and thoughts to Tijl's family and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time," wrote Lotto-Dstny on the social media platform X.
At this point, you will find external content that complements the article. You can display and hide it with a click.
The training accident occurred on Wednesday. According to the team, De Decker crashed into a car from behind. He was then taken to hospital in Lier, where he underwent immediate surgery. Later on Wednesday evening, he was transported to the university hospital in Antwerp, where he died on Friday.
Tijl De Decker won Paris-Roubaix U23
De Decker, who was part of the Lotto-Dstny development team, was one of Belgium's greatest cycling talents. He won the Paris-Roubaix U23 race in 2023 and was also fourth at Eschborn-Frankfurt.
"Tijl has made great progress this year and we believed in his potential. The move to the Pro Team was a logical decision. 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. We offer our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time," said Stephane Heulot, CEO of Lotto-Dstny.
