Cycling endures the loss of another promising young rider within a brief spatial frame.
Today is a grim day for the cycling community in the Netherlands. We're mourning the loss of Bas van Belle, a gifted cyclist affiliate with Wielerploeg Groot Amsterdam, who passed away at the tender age of 24. The Dutch Cycling Union (KNWU) broke the news on their official website, but unfortunately, the reason behind his untimely demise remains unclear.
The KNWU shared their sympathies in a statement, expressing their deep sadness and sorrow. "We mourn the loss of Bas van Belle," they said. "His departure leaves a significant void in the cycling world. Our thoughts are with his family, particularly his parents and siblings Lisa and Loe, his friends, and all those who knew him personally. We will always remember him as a compassionate and amiable individual, in addition to his impressive cycling skills." A condolence book has also been set up online.
Visma: "Feelings of Sorrow and Sympathy"
Bas once rode for the Luxembourgish Continental team Leopard Pro Cycling in 2019 and 2020. Later, he returned to Wielerploeg Groot Amsterdam in his home city of Amsterdam, where he achieved numerous notable placements. In 2023, he finished third in the Tour de Okinawa in Japan, third in a stage of the Course Cycliste de Solidarnosc in Poland, and fifth in the NK for elite riders without a contract. His latest competition was only last weekend at the Ronde van Midden-Brabant, where he placed 65th.
Visma Lease a Bike, team of Loe van Belle, Bas's younger brother, expressed their feelings of sympathy towards Loe and his family: "We are absolutely devastated by Bas's sudden demise," they said. "Our thoughts are with you and your loved ones in these challenging times. We strive to offer you strength and resilience for the days to come, and our deepest sympathies extend to the entire family of Bas and his friends."
Before this, it was reported that the 18-year-old cyclist Muriel Furrer passed away following a tragic accident at the World Championships in Zurich. She suffered severe injuries after crashing on Thursday and eventually succumbed to them the following day.
The cycling community worldwide is also grieving the loss of Bas van Belle, as sports often bring people together across borders. His talent and passion for cycling left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring many young riders.
