Cycling world mourns as Belgian rider hit by race motorcycle dies in hospital

A tragic loss that will lead to more questions about rider safety.

The sport of cycling is greiving today after news of the death of cyclist Antoine Demoitié was confirmed last night.

The Belgian died from injuries sustained in a collision with a motorcycle covering the the one-day race Gent-Wevelgem yesterday.

The Team Wandy-Gobert rider crashed during the race and was subsequently injured when he was run over by the motorcycle, which was claimed to have been following the riders too closely.

Demoitié was taken to hospital in Lille where initial reports of his death were refuted as he fought for his life. However, the 25-year-old racer later did succumb to his injuries, but not before donating organs that saved the lives of three people.

#UPDATE Belgian cyclist Antoine Demoitie dies after motorbike smash during race https://t.co/moVRvEbhTp

— AFP News Agency (@AFP) March 27, 2016

Following organ donation, @DemoitieAntoine saved 3 others lifes… Hero until the end! ✨🌟✨ #RIPAntoine

— BilleGaetan (@gaetanbille) March 28, 2016

Fellow members of the peloton have reacted with sadness to the loss, however, with an inquiry underway into the incident, calls for improved safety regulations regarding the vehicles that accompany every professional bike race after an increasing number of dangerous collisions involving riders in recent times.

The organisation of #GWE is shocked about the accident of Antoine Demoitié Thoughts are with his family and friends pic.twitter.com/bBHLf98ZFL

— Gent-Wevelgem (@GentWevelgem) March 28, 2016

Very sad news about A Demoitie this morning.

— nicholas roche (@nicholasroche) March 28, 2016

Such tragic news. RIP Antoine Demoitie. My thoughts and condolences are with your family, friends and teammates.

— Mark Cavendish (@MarkCavendish) March 28, 2016

So sad to hear of the passing of Antoine Demoitié. Condolences to his friends and family.

— Chris Froome (@chrisfroome) March 28, 2016

Horrible tragic news to wake up to. The cycling family has lost a brother. #RIPAntoine

— Dan Martin (@DanMartin86) March 28, 2016

Motos are a necessity in our sport for both security and media presence. It's their conduct and the direction that needs governance

— Dan Martin (@DanMartin86) March 28, 2016

Passing the peloton on downhills and during crucial moments in a race, when speed is high and fight for position frantic is just not safe

— Dan Martin (@DanMartin86) March 28, 2016