Swiss cyclist Muriel Furrer has passed away after suffering a head injury during the World Road Race Championships in Zurich on Thursday.
In a statement, the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) and the organizing committee of the 2024 UCI Road World Championships shared their deep sorrow over the tragic news of her death. “The 18-year-old rider fell heavily during Thursday’s women’s junior road race, sustaining a severe head injury. She was airlifted to the hospital in critical condition,” the statement read.
The statement also noted that Furrer passed away at Zurich University Hospital, marking a great loss for the international cycling community, which had high hopes for her future. “The UCI and the organizing committee extend their heartfelt condolences to Muriel Furrer’s family, friends, and Swiss Cycling. Her family has asked for privacy during this extremely difficult time.”
Questions have arisen about the response to the accident, with local reports suggesting that Furrer was not immediately located after her crash. Olivier Senn, deputy director of Zurich 2024, commented, “An investigation is underway by the police and public prosecutor. We have no confirmed details at this time and are unable to provide further comment.” The crash reportedly occurred in a wooded section near Küsnacht on the 73.6km course between Uster and Zurich, though the location has not been officially confirmed.
Additional scrutiny has been placed on the race’s safety protocols. The elite men’s and women’s races this weekend are set to cover the same stretch of road where the fatal crash is believed to have happened. Senn mentioned that extra safety measures were put in place, particularly on the downhill sections, due to the forecasted wet weather. “We have slightly adjusted the staffing on-site and believe we always prioritize the safety and security of the riders,” he said.
Thursday’s tragic incident is reminiscent of the death of another Swiss cyclist Muriel during the 2023 Tour de Suisse. Senn, who also serves as race director for the Tour, acknowledged feeling similar emotions but emphasized, “Today is about Muriel.” The UCI gala event scheduled for Saturday has been canceled, and podium ceremonies will be scaled back for the rest of the championships.
Swiss Cycling expressed their grief on X, stating, “Our hearts are broken. It is with immense sadness that we say goodbye to Muriel Furrer, a warm-hearted and wonderful young woman who always had a smile on her face. There is only pain and sorrow.” British Cycling also paid tribute, describing Muriel as a dedicated rider with a promising future, and offering condolences to her family, friends, and teammates.
Cat Ferguson, who won Thursday’s junior road race, shared her own tribute to Furrer on Instagram. Furrer had finished 44th in the junior women’s time trial earlier in the week and was an ambassador for the World Championships as part of the Swiss junior team. In addition to road racing, she also competed in cross-country cycling and recently participated in the World Mountain Bike Championships in Andorra.
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