Algemeen Statement on the passing of Tijl De Decker

It is with great sadness that we have to announce the passing of our rider Tijl De Decker. Today Tijl (22) has lost his battle to recover from the severe injuries he sustained after his crash on training last Wednesday.

Tijl crashed hard into the backside of a car and was brought to the hospital in Lier where he immediately underwent surgery. Later that evening he was transported to the Antwerp University Hospital. 

Despite the best efforts of the staff at the hospital, Tijl couldn’t make it through and this morning he lost his battle.

Tijl joined our Lotto Dstny Development Team this year and he showed immediately a lot of determination and passion for his sport. He impressed with a stage win in the Tour de Taiwan and places of honour in the U23 races Rutland-Melton Cicle Classic (2nd) and Eschborn-Frankfurt U23 (4th) and he won Paris-Roubaix U21. He would step up next year to the ProTeam.

“We are devastated by the loss of our cyclist”, says CEO Stéphane Heulot. “Tijl showed big progression this year and we believed in his growth margin. Stepping up to the pro team was a logical choice. Unfortunately he will never turn pro and we will always remember him as a talented young rider and a warm and friendly person off the bike. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones, and our thoughts are with them during this difficult time.”

Please, Tijl’s family has requested privacy as they mourn their loss, and we kindly ask you to respect their wishes.

Image: Brecht Steenhouwer