‘Unbearable that we will never see each other again’: Cycling world responds to death of Chris Anker Sørensen

The former pro turned commentator was struck by a driver at the Flanders World Championships

Chris Ankers Sørensen
Chris Ankers Sørensen
(Image credit: Lars Ronbog / FrontZoneSport via Getty Images)

The cycling world has been devastated by the news that former professional rider Chris Anker Sørensen has died. 

Danish rider-turned-commentator Sørensen was killed after he was hit by a driver on the eve of the 2021 Road World Championships in Flanders, while riding the time trial course. 

Following news of the 37-year-old’s death, friends and colleagues have paid tribute to a “sweet, talented, thoughtful” man. 

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Andreas Kron, a current Danish pro riding for Lotto-Soudal, said: “I still can’t believe that my idol, mentor, team-mate and friend passed away.

“You always believed in me, supported me, and showed me what it takes to be a pro rider.

“All my love and thoughts to your family, you will forever be in my heart.” 

Sørensen turned pro back in 2007 with the CSC ProTeam, eventually stepping up to the WorldTour with Saxo Bank in 2009. 

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Danish journalist Bryan Nygaard said: “Sweet, thoughtful, talented friend. It is unbearable to think that we will never see each other again. 

“You were always there for everyone else, even when you were doing the greatest things for yourself in your life and in your career. Rest in peace, Chris Anker Sørensen. There is no consolation, only love.”

Sørensen took five pro wins during his 14 years in the peloton, including stages of the Giro d’Italia and the Critérium du Dauphiné, before his retirement in 2018, while riding for Continental squad Riwal CeramicSpeed Cycling Team. 

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After his racing career, Sørensen joined the broadcast team at TV2 in Denmark, including covering the 2021 World Championships. 

UCI president David Lappartient said: “Words can’t express my sadness to hear of the tragic passing of former professional cyclist and journalist, Chris Anker Sørensen.

“To the family and friends, my deepest sympathies for this terrible loss.” 

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Alex Ballinger

Alex Ballinger is editor of BikeBiz magazine, the leading publication for the UK cycle industry, and is the former digital news editor for CyclingWeekly.com. After gaining experience in local newsrooms, national newspapers and in digital journalism, Alex found his calling in cycling, first as a reporter, then as news editor responsible for Cycling Weekly's online news output, and now as the editor of BikeBiz. Since pro cycling first captured his heart during the 2010 Tour de France (specifically the Contador-Schleck battle) Alex covered three Tours de France, multiple editions of the Tour of Britain, and the World Championships, while both writing and video presenting for Cycling Weekly. He also specialises in fitness writing, often throwing himself into the deep end to help readers improve their own power numbers.  Away from the desk, Alex can be found racing time trials, riding BMX and mountain bikes, or exploring off-road on his gravel bike. He’s also an avid gamer, and can usually be found buried in an eclectic selection of books.