Italian cyclist Davidde Rebellin has been killed after being hit by a truck in training.
Rebellin was killed upon impact in the incident, which occurred at Montebello Vicentino shortly before midday, Il Gazzettino reported. The vehicle allegedly did not stop at the scene and was being searched for by police.
Rebellin's brother, Carlo, attended the scene after being informed of a road accident involving a cyclist in the Montecchio area. He immediately went to the scene and recognised his sibling's bike.
Rebellin, 51, won a string of high profile races in his career. In 2004, he captured the Amstel Gold Race, La Fleche Wallonne and Liege-Bastogne-Liege. Four years later, he won the Paris-Nice race, but was forced to return his road race silver medal from the 2008 Olympics in Beijing after a retroactive doping test.
Tributes have already poured in for the star, with the Movistar Team tweeting: "Dismayed by the death of Davide Rebellin, a simple and enormously sympathetic man with whom we shared so many duels and podiums during his very long career. A big hug to all your loved ones. Rest in peace."
Cyclist Alenjandro Valverde replied with: "My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Davide Rebellin, a professional colleague and rival for so many years."
Another pro rider in Philippe Gilbert added: "A few days ago we were doing our last pro race in Monaco and today you left to join the stars. I think very strongly of Francoise and your family. I am very sad we will miss you amigo."
The recently retired Rebellin finished his career with Italian team Work Service–Marchiol–Dynatek. It was the 14th team he raced for in an illustrious career.
Despite 2004 undoubtedly representing his strongest season, Rebellin's major break came in the 1996 Giro d'Italia. Riding for Polti, he won stage seven and with it led in the general classification, giving him the pink jersey. He held the lead for six stages and eventually finished sixth.
