Belgian cyclist Michael Goolaerts dies aged 23
What's the story
The cycling fraternity is mourning the death of Belgian cyclist Michael Goolaerts.
The 23-year-old suffered a cardiac arrest during the gruelling Paris-Roubaix one-day classic race in France.
He was immediately airlifted to a hospital in Lille, but it was later revealed that the doctors could not save him as he breathed his last breath on Sunday.
Twitter Post
Michael's team mourns his demise
— Veranda’s Willems - Crelan Pro Cycling Team (@Snipercycling) April 8, 2018
Heart fails during race
Goolaerts was given life-saving CPR after crash
The Belgian crashed after completing 109km of the 257km race and was found in an unconscious state by the doctors.
Television footage showed him receiving medical treatment and CPR at the side of the road before being airlifted to the hospital.
Goolaerts breathed his last in the presence of his family members.
Hellish race
Paris-Roubaix is one of the most grueling races
Goolaerts, who turned into a professional racer aged just 20, was competing for the first time in the one-day classic race.
Paris-Roubaix is regarded as one of the toughest races in cycling which is why it has been nicknamed 'Hell of the North'. It has 29 cobbled sectors.
Paris-Roubaix is one of the five 'monuments', the most prestigious one-day races.