"The accident itself is still being investigated" - UCI boss refuses to comment on tragic death of Muriel Furrer, but confirms 2024 World Championships will continue

The cycling world is in mourning this Friday, September 27th after the tragic passing of 18-year-old Swiss junior Muriel Furrer, following a crash in the women's junior road race on Thursday afternoon at the 2024 World Championships in Zurich.

"The cycling world loses a great talent," says UCI's sporting director Peter Van den Abeele in an emergency UCI press conference, called in response to Furrer's heart-breaking death. "The accident itself is still being investigated by the competent authorities. The UCI and the organizing committee respect the family's wish for the World Championships to take place as planned."

A report from Blick suggests that "Furrer lay undiscovered in the forest next to the racing circuit for a long time after her fall," but General Manager Olivier Senn insists that until the investigation into the crash is completed, all rumours and speculation will not be commented on.

"I can't say anything about it yet," Senn explains. "There is an investigation underway and we don't have the information ourselves yet. Everything that is circulating now is just rumour. Out of respect for the family, I would like to ask you to focus on the facts only. We are all struggling with this loss, but we must continue to support everyone as best we can. The podium ceremonies have been modified, with flags flying at half-mast and a tribute to Furrer. At this time, we are focusing on next weekend's events."

Changes have been made to the course though, as a direct result of the crash. "We have reviewed the situation on the descent, adjusted it and believe that - as we always try - we have increased safety to the maximum for the riders," the UCI reveals.

From all associated with CyclingUpToDate.com, we send our thoughts and prayers to the family of Muriel Furrer and all who knew her.