Sean Kelly was among the mourners who attended former world champion Claude Criquielion's funeral on Wednesday.
Many of the attendees had to stand outside Criquielion's local church of Saint Martin in Deux-Acren, Belgium, as it was full to capacity. A world champion's jersey and Belgian flag were draped over Criquielion's coffin, to mark his cycling achievements.
"I was always good friends with him and we always worked well together in the races," said Kelly. "I think coming from a background like myself... we're a little bit the same character. Never give up, keep on fighting all the time."
In addition to his 1984 world road race title, Criquielion won two editions of Fleche Wallonne (1985 and 1989), and the Tour of Flanders in 1987. He last raced in 1991 for the Lotto team, and went on to become a team sports director and manager.
Criquielion leaves two children and a wife.
Criquielion's casket was draped with his world champion's jersey
(Image credit: Watson)
Many cyclists joined friends and family in paying their respects
(Image credit: Watson)
A procession was held to honour Criquielion
(Image credit: Watson)
A large crowd of mourners stood outside the full church
(Image credit: Watson)
Claude Criquielion leads Sean Kelly in the 1984 Tour of Lombardy
(Image credit: Watson)
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access
Nigel Wynn worked as associate editor on CyclingWeekly.com, he worked almost single-handedly on the Cycling Weekly website in its early days. His passion for cycling, his writing and his creativity, as well as his hard work and dedication, were the original driving force behind the website’s success. Without him, CyclingWeekly.com would certainly not exist on the size and scale that it enjoys today. Nigel sadly passed away, following a brave battle with a cancer-related illness, in 2018. He was a highly valued colleague, and more importantly, an exceptional person to work with - his presence is sorely missed.
