I got some sad news two days ago, as I found out that former world champion Claude Criquielion, 58, had suffered a “serious stroke”. Today, I heard that he had passed away. It is very sad.

"At the request of the family, we will inform you with sadness that Mr. Claude Criquielion died today at 9am in the General Municipal Hospital, campus in Aalst at the age of 58 as a result of a severe brain haemorrhage,” read the hospital’s statement.

“The family also agreed to implement an organ donation procedure. No further statements will be made by the hospital or by the family."

Criquielion rode professionally from 1979 until 1991. Throughout his career, he was a consistent winner. In 1984, he won the World championships ahead of Claudio Corti (Italy) and Steve Bauer (Canada).

He also finished ninth in his debut Tour de France in 1979, where he also finished second in the white jersey competition to current Europcar team mananger, Jean-René Bernaudeau. In 1980 and 1981, he finished second again in the white jersey competition at Tour de France.

One year later, he finished third in the Vuelta a Espana.

Criquielion was successful in the one day races as well, with victories in the Tour of Flanders, Flèche Brabançonne, Flèche Wallonne, San Sebastian.