Two Cyclists Collapse and Die During We Ride Flanders Event

The We Ride Flanders Gran Fondo, an annual cycling event that attracts thousands of participants, was marred by tragedy on Saturday as two cyclists lost their lives and several others were critically injured during the race

20Two Cyclists Collapse and Die During We Ride Flanders Event

The event, celebrated for its challenging course and scenic views, took a somber turn as emergency medical teams responded to multiple incidents on the route.

The event organizers shared the heartbreaking news via their official Facebook page, stating, “What should have been a beautiful day ended tragically. During We Ride Flanders 2025, two people lost their lives on the Taaienberg and Oude Kwaremont. They became unwell while riding. We are heartbroken by these tragic events. Our thoughts are with all the loved ones of these two people; may they rest in peace.”

According to local media reports, the first incident occurred on the Taaienberg, where a Dutch cyclist suffered a heart attack while ascending the steep climb. Despite the rapid response of medical staff, who attempted resuscitation, the efforts proved unsuccessful, and the rider was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. Event organizer Gert Van Goolen expressed his sorrow, stating, “The man was resuscitated, and the ambulance was there very quickly, but all help came too late.”

A second cyclist, a French national, collapsed on the Oude Kwaremont, another demanding segment of the race. Medical personnel worked diligently to revive him before airlifting him to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased by attending physicians.

In addition to these tragic fatalities, another participant collapsed on the steep Eikenberg climb and was reported to be in critical condition. Medical teams successfully resuscitated him at the scene before transporting him to the hospital; however, his current status remains unknown.

The chaos continued as an additional cyclist suffered a severe crash on the renowned Koppenberg climb, resulting in a suspected ankle fracture. He was also airlifted to the hospital for further evaluation.

The Tour of Flanders gran fondo is regarded as a bucket-list ride for amateur cyclists, drawing over 15,000 participants each year. The event typically takes place the day before the professional Tour of Flanders, allowing cycling enthusiasts to experience the same challenging route as the pros. However, this year’s event will be remembered for its tragic incidents rather than its celebratory spirit.

10,000 cyclists, so two out of three participants, came from outside Belgium. According to the organisers, cyclists from 67 different countries took part. Most of them came from the Netherlands, France, England and Germany.

As the cycling community mourns the loss of these two riders, the organizers are working closely with local authorities to assess the events that transpired and provide support to affected families. “This is a reminder of the unpredictability of life and the importance of safety in our beloved sport,” Van Goolen added.

Link to 2025 We Ride Flanders Results: https://www.acn-timing.com/?lng=EN#/events/2155772934943512/ctx/20250405_rvv/generic/198026_9/home/RVV

The We Ride Flanders Gran Fondo, an annual cycling event that attracts thousands of participants, was marred by tragedy on Saturday as two cyclists lost their lives and several others were critically injured during the race