The fatal accident of the young Swiss cyclist Muriel Furrer at the World Cycling Championships in Zurich has caused great consternation. A selection of reactions.
"I am stunned by the death of the young U19 rider Muriel Furrer," wrote Sports Minister Viola Amherd on X, expressing her condolences to her relatives.
The Swiss Cycling Federation Swiss Cycling expressed its grief in the following words in a post on social media. "It is with a heavy heart and infinite sadness that we have to say goodbye to Muriel Furrer today. We are losing a warm-hearted and wonderful young woman who always had a smile on her face. There is no understanding, only pain and sadness."
Two Swiss Olympic champions also expressed their dismay. "Terribly sad news. My deepest condolences to Muriel's loved ones," wrote mountain biker Nino Schurter on Instagram. Four-time time trial world champion Fabian Cancellara also expressed his feelings there. "It's crazy to lose such a young athlete. My thoughts are with her family at this difficult moment."
Lotte Kopecky, the elite road world champion, also expressed her grief in a story on Instagram. "It happens far too often and far too quickly. My thoughts are with her family, friends and teammates," wrote the Belgian.
Sandra Mäder, the mother of Gino Mäder, who was killed in an accident last year, wrote directly to Furrer's family on Instagram. On the day of the accident, before the terrible news of his death, she commented under the Zurich woman's last Instagram entry: "Dear Furrer family, I feel for you. Very intensely and I know so well how you must be feeling right now. Be hugged. I wish you lots of strength to get through these hours."
