Swiss cyclist, Muriel Furrer, 18, tragically passed away following a severe head injury sustained during a race at the UCI Road and Para-cycling Road World Championships.
The incident occurred on Thursday during the women’s junior road race in Zurich, Switzerland, when Furrer suffered a serious fall.
After the accident, she was airlifted to Zurich University Hospital by an emergency helicopter, where doctors battled to save her life.
Unfortunately, despite their efforts, Furrer succumbed to her injuries the following day.
The Union Cycliste Internationale expressed deep sorrow in an official statement issued on Friday, confirming the news of her passing.
“It is with great sadness that the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) and the Organising Committee of the 2024 UCI Road and Para-cycling Road World Championships in Zurich (Switzerland) today learned the tragic news of the death of young Swiss cyclist Muriel Furrer,” the statement read.
The UCI described Furrer as a promising cyclist with a bright future, and her loss has sent shockwaves through the international cycling community.
Her death marks a somber moment for the sport, particularly during a major event like the World Championships.
“With the passing of Muriel Furrer, the international cycling community loses a rider with a bright future ahead of her. The 18-year-old rider fell heavily yesterday, Thursday 26 September, during the Women Junior road race, and suffered a serious head injury before being flown to hospital by helicopter in a very critical condition. Muriel Furrer sadly passed away today at Zurich University Hospital,” the UCI’s statement continued.
The governing body, along with the event organizers, extended their heartfelt sympathies to Furrer’s family, friends, and Swiss Cycling, the national federation she proudly represented.
“The UCI and the Organising Committee of the 2024 UCI Road and Para-cycling Road World Championships offer their sincere condolences to Muriel Furrer’s family, friends and her Federation Swiss Cycling,” the statement concluded. “Muriel Furrer’s family asks that their privacy be respected at this very painful time.”
As the cycling world mourns the loss of one of its young stars, authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic accident.
On Thursday, the UCI emphasized that the facts of the incident are still under review, stating that no conclusions have been reached yet.
“At present, there are no established facts regarding how the accident happened. Investigations by the competent authorities are ongoing. For this reason, no further information can be given until further notice,” the UCI said.
Furrer’s death casts a shadow over the championships, reminding athletes and spectators alike of the inherent dangers in the sport.
