Race Organizer Gets Three-Month Suspended Sentence Following Stef Loos' Tragic Death

Belgian race organizer Marc Duquesnoy has been handed a three-month suspended sentence in connection with the tragic incident at the 2019 Grand Prix Alfred Gadenne, where rider Stef Loos lost his life.

The incident unfolded when Loos and approximately 30 other racers deviated from the course in the Belgian town of Tournai, entering open traffic. This led to a collision with a van, resulting in severe injuries for Loos and two other riders. Unfortunately, Loos succumbed to the head injuries he sustained.

Duquesnoy faced charges of involuntary manslaughter and involuntary injuries, with the court determining that organizational shortcomings played a significant role in the peloton veering off course. Issues such as an insufficient number of route marshals and inadequate signage were highlighted during the trial held in Tournai this week.

Initially, the prosecution sought a 12-month sentence, with six months suspended. Duquesnoy argued that responsibility for the errors should be shared among various parties involved in hosting the Grand Prix Alfred Gadenne. He pointed out that despite the deficiencies in on-course marshals, the race had received approval from local police.

Expressing his remorse at the start of the hearing last month, Duquesnoy stated, "I have organized more than 500 races. What happened remains on my heart. But I cannot be responsible and guilty for everything. Until I die, I will think about this tragedy."

The unfortunate incident took place in March 2019 during the GP Alfred Gadenne race, marking a somber chapter in the world of cycling.

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