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A British man, 51, dies during the Tour of Flanders sportive in Belgium. He collapses, likely from a heart attack, near the Hotond climb while participating in the We Ride Flanders tour alongside his son. Event organizer Gert Van Goolen confirms a medical team responded swiftly but was unable to save him.
"This is the last thing you want as an organization," Van Goolen states, emphasizing the hope for a safe event for all 14,000 participants. The longest route spans 247 kilometers, starting in Antwerp and finishing in Oudenaarde. Other shorter distances include 79 km, 133 km, and 163 km, all featuring the Hotond climb.
Two additional riders face serious incidents during the event. A 57-year-old Dutch man and a second British rider experience medical emergencies on the Oude Kwaremont. Both are transported to the hospital for treatment.
This event's tragic history includes the deaths of two participants in 2025, including former professional rider Stéphane Krafft. The Tour of Flanders is known for its challenging routes and vibrant atmosphere, but safety remains a paramount concern.
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