Today's stage of the Tour de Suisse will not be raced competitively as the peloton pays homage to Gino Mäder. The race has been irreversibly changed, and today the riders will only ride in tribute of the Swiss rider.
“It is the worst possible outcome. We are all dejected. He was a fantastic person and rider, he didn't deserve to leave the world like this. We would like to honor the memory of Gino. That's all that matters for today," race director Olivier Senn said.
Talking in behalf of the organization, the race has decided to cut the day, and only the final 20 kilometers of the stage will be ridden, into the town of Oberwil-Lieli.
“What we are going to do now is a memory ride on the last part of the course. We are not starting from Chur, but the starting location is still unknown. From the start we ride as a group to the finish. However, plans are still being made, if we know more we will announce it."
We are heartbroken! Gino you've been an excellent rider but even more a wonderful person! Always smilling and making people happy arround you! Rest in peace! Our thoughts are with Gino's family! Below you can find the official statement of @BHRVictorious
