Tijl De Decker dies after cycling training crash as Lotto Dstny team pay tribute – ‘we are devastated’

Tijl De Decker has tragically lost his life after a training crash in the town of Lier near Antwerp, his team Lotto Dstny have confirmed.

The rider was taken to Antwerp University Hospital to undergo surgery on Wednesday, before being placed into a medical induced coma.

Lier police gave a statement that read: “The cyclist was seriously injured and taken to hospital. A traffic expert from the public prosecutor’s office has arrived on site, an investigation is underway into the exact circumstances. I can confirm that a passenger car was involved in the accident.”

De Decker was tipped for a bright future in cycling after some stand-out displays for Lotto-Dstny’s reserve team.

He signed his first professional contract back in July and secured a podium finish at Brussel-Opwijk and a stage victory at the Tour of Taiwan.

The Belgian was due to be rewarded for his progress with Lotto Dstny set to offer the starlet a professional contract for next year.

Lotto Dstny led the tributes for De Decker and said on social media: “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.”

Meanwhile, the team’s CEO Stephane Heulot also offered his condolences and reflected on a promising career cut tragically short.

“We are devastated by the loss of our cyclist,” said Heulot in quotes published by cyclingnews.com.

“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. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones, and our thoughts are with them during this difficult time.”

De Decker’s death follows the passing of Gino Mader, after the Swiss rider crashed into a ravine at the Tour de Suisse in June.