Stage 6 of the Tour de Suisse 2023 was dedicated to young Swiss cyclist Gino Mäder, who lost his life today following a crash yesterday competing at the highest level of the sport he loved. Today’s stage was neutralised following discussions between Gino’s family and Tour de Suisse organisers.
“In the cycling world in Switzerland we are a family”, said Olivier Senn, Director of the Tour de Suisse. “It is so very hard to express the emotions right now but first and foremost our thoughts are with Gino’s family. We are grieving with them at this terrible time.”
Gino’s Team members at Bahrain Victorious led the riders to the finish of a 20 kilometre memorial ride in what was a very moving and solemn tribute to the young man who had touched the hearts all he knew.
For the volunteers, fans, professional cyclists and event organisers Stage 6 was sombre and sad. But it was a day for Gino – a time to share the grief and work through the pain of an unexpected tragedy. Team Bahrain Victorious said “Today and everyday we ride for you Gino”.
This is the second fatal accident in the history of the Tour de Suisse. Exactly seventy-five years ago Belgian cyclist Richard Depoorter lost his life on the Susten Pass.
Discussions will now begin to decide how the final stages will progress but it may well be tomorrow morning before an announcement is made. “Today has been about Gino, he has been our sole focus. This has affected us all and we need to make sure that the teams and the riders, as well as our staff, are fit and able to continue”, Senn said.
