Professional cyclist Bjorg Lambrecht has died after a crash on the Tour of Poland.
The 22-year-old Belgian fell in the final 100km of the third stage and was taken to hospital, after being resuscitated, according to race organisers.
But his team confirmed he passed away on Tuesday morning (NZT).
Lotto-Soudal tweeted: "The biggest tragedy possible that could happen to the family, friends and teammates of Bjorg has happened... Rest in peace Bjorg."
The Tour of Poland confirmed the news on its Twitter account.
"There are no words to describe this tragedy. Bjorg Lambrecht passed away following an accident on today's stage," the statement read.
"Our thoughts are with his family, friends, team and the whole cycling community."
Two members of New Zealand's cycling community have also weighed in on the tragic passing of their peer.
Greg Henderson said he was in complete shock.
"I can't believe it," he tweeted. "So so sad.
"RIP mate. Hearfelt thoughts and sympathy to his family and friends.
"Gutting news."
Current New Zealand road cycling team member Sam Bewley also commented.
"Absolutely heartbreaking to read this," he wrote on Twitter.
"The most sincere condolences and deepest sympathy's to Bjorg's family, friends and teammates. Rest in Peace Bjorg."
Lambrecht had secured a series of strong finishes during one-day classics earlier this year and was named the most promising youngster in the June Tour of the Dauphine, a preparatory event for the Tour de France.
PA
