Drege plunges to his death: Tour of Austria cancels last stage
The death of Andre Drege shook the cycling world. The Norwegian came crashing down in the descent from the Großglockner and succumbed to his injuries. The organizers of the Austria-Rundfahrt reacted and cancelled the last stage, which was 143.8 kilometers from Kufstein to Kuhtai. Instead, there will be a neutralized condolences ride to Patscherkofel at the request of the family and the team. Drege fell during the king's stage on Saturday in the descent from the Großglockner. The 25-year-old from Team Coop-Repsol passed away. The police have launched investigations.
"She gives the entire cycling family the opportunity to process what happened and honor the memory of Andre Drege," Tour Director Thomas Pupp was quoted as saying in a statement from the organizers. The condolences ride is scheduled to begin at 13:30 in Tulfes. The riders will gather in Kufstein at 11 am for a moment of silence and a short, neutralized start.
The cycling elite of the Tour de France mourned Andre Drege as well. "I am in shock," said superstar Tadej Pogacar. "It's hard to process what happened. This is very sad to hear," he added. "We really have to look out for each other and take care of each other in the cycling world," said the current leader in the yellow jersey. Cycling veteran Alexander Kristoff and Drege's teammate spoke of "very bad news."
- Instead of competing in the last stage of the Austria-Rundfahrt, the cyclists will be participating in a neutralized condolence trip to Patscherkofel, paying tribute to the late Andre Drege.
- Instead of starting the final stage at Kufstein at the usual time, the riders will gather there at 11 am for a moment of silence and a short, respectful commemorative ride.
- Instead of focusing on the Tour of Austria's sporting competitions, the cycling community is now turning their attention to offering condolences and support to Andre Drege's family, friends, and teammates.
