Who was Gino Mader? Talented Tour de Swiss cyclist described as a ‘rising star’ and an ‘extraordinary athlete’ who died aged 26 after a high-speed crash
- Everything you need to know about Gino Mader, who sadly passed away at the age of 26
Swiss cyclist Gino Mader has died aged 26 after a high-speed crash during the fifth stage of the Tour de Suisse.
The cyclist was involved in a high-speed collision with American Magnus Sheffield on the descent of the Albula Pass in the Swiss Alps on Thursday.
But who exactly was Gino Mader? Has he ever won professional stages as a cyclist?
Here’s everything you need to know about the Swiss cyclist after his tragic passing.
The Swiss put in a fine performance in the 2021 Giro d’Italia, winning the race’s sixth stage en route to a top six finish in the event’s general classification
Gino Mader waits for the start of the 7th stage of the Giro d’Italia, in Notaresco, Italy, on May 14, 2021
Who was Gino Mader?
Gino Mader was born in Switzerland – located in the German-speaking municipality of Flawil – in 1997.
Before becoming a professional cyclist, Mader competed in track events, most notably at the 2016 UEC European Track Championships – where he competed in the team pursuit.
He joined his first professional cycling team in 2019, becoming a member of the UCI WorldTeam Dimension Data team.
After switching to road cycling, he was named on the start list for the prestigious Vuelta a España, one of cycling’s three grand tours, in 2020.
After finishing 20th at that year’s Vuelta, he followed that up with an impressive fifth place at the same event in 2021 to win the young rider classification.
The Swiss also put in a fine performance in the 2021 Giro d’Italia, winning the race’s sixth stage en route to a top six finish in the event’s general classification.
In 2022 he finished second overall in the Tour de Romandie, while in March 2023 he took a fifth place in the Paris-Nice race.
Mader reacts after crossing the finish line during the 4th stage of the 81st Paris – Nice cycling race
How did Gino Mader die?
After a high-speed crash with American Magnus Sheffield on the descent of the Albula Pass in the Swiss Alps on Thursday, Gino Mader fell into a ravine and was resuscitated on the spot before being airlifted to a hospital in Chur.
Mader sadly passed away Friday morning after doctors worked overnight to save his life.
Mader’s Bahrain Victorious team said in a statement: ‘It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that we must announce the passing of Gino Mäder. On Friday, June 16, after a very bad crash during stage 5 of the Tour de Suisse, Gino lost the battle to recover from the serious injuries he suffered.
“Our entire team has been devastated by this tragic accident and our thoughts and prayers are with Gino’s family and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.
“Gino was an extraordinary athlete, an example of determination, a valued member of our team and the entire cycling community.
“His talent, dedication and passion for the sport has inspired us all.”