Tijl De Decker, a talented young Belgian cyclist who won this year’s under-23 Paris-Roubaix, has died aged 22 following a crash in training.

De Decker was taken to Antwerp University Hospital for surgery on Wednesday following the incident, and was later placed in a medically induced coma.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tijl De Decker, following a training accident past Wednesday,” his team Lotto Dstny announced 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.”

De Decker signed his first professional contract in July after impressing for Lotto-Dstny’s reserve team with a podium finish at Brussel-Opwijk and a stage win on the Tour of Taiwan.

More to follow...