18-year-old cyclist tragically dies following crash at World Championships

Swiss cyclist Muriel Furrer has tragically died after suffering a serious head injury at the Road and Para-cycling World Championships in Switzerland.

Furrer, who was only 18 years old, crashed during the junior road race on Thursday and was taken to hospital via emergency helicopter.

The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) released the following statement: “With the passing of Muriel Furrer, the international cycling community loses a rider with a bright future ahead of her.

"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.

"Muriel Furrer's family asks that their privacy be respected at this very painful time," it concluded.

Furrer had a bright future ahead of her after becoming a double silver medallist in the time trial and road race at the 2024 Swiss road nationals.

Muriel Furrer- Getty

Swiss Cycling said on X: "Our hearts are broken.It is with a heavy heart and infinite sadness that we have to say goodbye to Muriel Furrer.

"We are losing a warm-hearted and wonderful young woman who always had a smile on her face. There is no understanding, only pain and sadness."

The incident will once again put road cycling safety under the spotlight despite the UCI introducing the SafeR campaign in 2023 to analyse risks involved in events.

There have been a number of incidents over the last few years which have sparked concern with Furrer's compatriot Gino Mader also killed last year, aged 26, after a crash while descending at high speed during the Tour de Suisse.

British Cycling also paid tribute to Furrer on X: "Everyone at British Cycling is devastated to learn of the passing of Muriel Furrer.

"Muriel was a devoted young rider with a bright future ahead of her and will be sorely missed by the cycling world. We send our condolences to her family, friends and team-mates at Swiss Cycling."