Belgian cyclist Igor Decraene, the junior world time-trial champion, has died in an apparent suicide, AFP reports. He was 18 years old.
"A native of Waregem in northern Belgium, Decraene killed himself not far from there at Zulte, the Belga news agency said without giving further details," AFP said.
The Belgian Cycling Federation confirmed the news on its website. Its president, Tom van Damme, said, "It's difficult to comment on this terrible news. It will take time."
The governing body of world cycling, the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), posted this statement on its website:
The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) is very sad to announce the loss of Belgian rider Igor Decraene.
At a mere 18 years of age, Igor was the current Junior individual time-trial World Champion. At the end of 2013, he received the Vélo de Cristal as best Junior rider of the year in Belgium, and was due to defend his title in a few weeks time in Ponferrada at the 2014 UCI Road World Championships in Spain.
UCI President Brian Cookson said: "This is a terribly sad news. Igor was a very promising rider. Our thoughts are with his parents, brothers, family and friends."
Belgian sports channel Sporza reported the news in a video (click here to watch it):
On Sept. 24, 2013, in Florence, Italy, Decraene won a gold medal and became the world champion in the junior men's time trial:
He was set to ride with one of professional cycling's biggest teams, Omega Pharma–Quick-Step.
He was to take part in the cycling world championships in Ponferrada, Spain, in September.
Teams, riders, coaches, and fans expressed their condolences on social media:
Thoughts go out to friends and family of Igor Decraene. RIP Igor. Gone too soon!
— axelmerckx (@axelmerckx) August 30, 2014Shocked by the news of Igor Decraene. Sad day for cycling. Our deepest thoughts go out to his family and friends. #rip
— Lotto Belisol (@Lotto_Belisol) August 30, 2014Our thoughts are with the friends and family of Igor Decraene.
— OPQS Cycling Team (@opqscyclingteam) August 30, 2014Incredible and sad news coming from Belgium , RIP Juniors World champ Igor Decraene , one more big talent disappearing.
— John Lelangue (@johnlelangue) August 30, 2014RIP, Igor Decraene. pic.twitter.com/uYQIYWhNhn
— peloton magazine (@pelotonmagazine) August 30, 2014Shocked by the news that Igor Decraene died. A big talent, a very good boy, with both feet on the ground! Why? Can't believe it! RIP Igor
— Sep Vanmarcke (@sepvanmarcke) August 30, 2014Then you get quiet and put everything in perspective . RIP Igor Decraene , only 18 years old #worldchampion
— Geert Van Bondt (@Geertvanbondt) August 30, 2014SEE ALSO: The Beloved Bike Robin Williams Donated Just Weeks Before He Died Raised $20,000 For Charity
SEE ALSO: Dutch Cyclist Dies After Crashing At The Mountain Bike World Cup