The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) has announced the tragic death of 18-year-old Swiss cyclist Muriel Furrer, who passed away on Friday after suffering a severe head injury during a race at the UCI Road and Para-cycling Road World Championships in Zurich, Switzerland.
Furrer was competing in the women’s junior road race on Thursday when she experienced a heavy fall, resulting in a critical head injury. Emergency services quickly responded, and she was flown by helicopter to Zurich University Hospital. Despite medical efforts, she succumbed to her injuries a day later.
In a statement, the UCI expressed deep sadness, acknowledging the loss of a promising young athlete with a bright future. “The international cycling community loses a rider with great potential,” the statement read. The UCI, alongside the organizing committee of the championships, extended their heartfelt condolences to Furrer’s family, friends, and Swiss Cycling Federation, while requesting privacy for the family during this difficult time.
An investigation into the cause of the accident is currently underway, with authorities still gathering details. The UCI has stated that no further information will be released until the investigation is complete.
The tragic loss has sent shockwaves through the cycling world, casting a somber mood over the event in Zurich.
