Robert de Greef Dies Three Weeks After Suffering Heart Attack
The 27-year-old cyclist was riding the first cobble sector at Omloop van de Braakman when he suffered a cardiac arrest. He was given CPR “for hours” and was taken to a hospital in Antwerp and placed in a medically induced coma for 48 hours. He then spent three weeks in critical condition before passing away last night after suffering a brain haemorrhage.
His UCI Continental team, Alecto, made the announcement this morning:
Unfortunately we have to confirm with great sorrow that Robbert died last night due to complications after his cardiac arrest. Thanks for everything Robbert, we will never forget you.
Truly sad news, especially give the team’s announcement last week that De Greef’s condition was improving.
Last year, British Cycling announced that all of its athletes will undergo yearly heart scans. Riders from academy to elite level will be assessed by health experts and could even be advised to retire if their safety is at risk.
