'Shining light' Gino Mader dies after falling down ravine at Tour de Suisse

Swiss rider Gino Maeder has died from the injuries he sustained when he plunged into a ravine during the Tour de Suisse on Thursday.

The 26-year-old Team Bahrain Victorious rider was involved in a high-speed crash with American Magnus Sheffield on the descent of the Albula Pass and fell into a ravine during Stage 6.

Mader had been found “motionless in the water” according to a race statement, before being resuscitated by race doctors at the scene and airlifted to hospital in Chur.

However, Mader lost his fight for life on Friday morning.

I can’t believe what I’m reading. Such a sad sad day. Thoughts with everyone who knew and loved Gino. https://t.co/kjh2jC1xP6

“It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we have to announce the passing of Gino Mader,” a team statement said. “On Friday 16th June, following a very serious crash during stage 5 of the Tour de Suisse, Gino lost his battle to recover from the severe injuries he sustained.

“Our entire team is devastated by this tragic accident, and our thoughts and prayers are with Gino's family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.

“Following the high-speed incident which occurred on the final descent of Thursday's stage, the 26-year-old was resuscitated at the scene by medical staff who also performed CPR, before being airlifted to hospital.

“Despite the best efforts of the phenomenal staff at Chur hospital, Gino couldn't make it through this, his final and biggest challenge, and at 11:30am we said goodbye to one of the shining lights of our team.”

From left, Stefan Bissegger, Silvan Dillier and Stefan Kueng in tears after the death of colleague Gino Maeder. AP

Sheffield also fell on the same descent from Albula, during the most difficult stage of the