Motocross star Rene Hofer has died at the age of just 19.
The teenager and two friends lost their lives in an avalanche at a ski resort in Austria yesterday.
More specific details surrounding his death are currently unknown, but tributes have poured in for the Professional Motocross Athlete, most notably from Infront Moto Racing.
Their statement read: “It is with a heavy heart that Infront Moto Racing must share the tragic news of the passing of one of its bright stars, Rene Hofer.
“Hofer was no doubt one of the happiest guys in the paddock, always seen with the biggest smile on his face.
“The Austrian had a bright future ahead of him and he showed a glimpse of what was to come.
“He claimed the 85cc Junior World Championship and European titles in 2016 and of course his incredible performance this season.
"This included his first race win and Grand Prix victory in Pietramurata along with the overall victory in the MX2 class at the Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations where he represented Team Austria.
“Infront Moto Racing and the entire MXGP family expresses their deepest condolences and sends all their strength to Rene’s family, friends and the whole Team at KTM at this incredibly difficult time.”
Hofer is a junior motocross world champion and European champion who was tipped for even more success at the professional level.
He wrote his name into the history books by becoming just the third Austrian to win the world title in cross-country motorcycles.
In the aftermath of his tragic death, KTM Junior Racing Team for which he rode said: “Ride in peace little Rene. It’s a tragedy for your family, for your KTM family and for all the mxgp family.
“You will be forever remembered as the happy kid you have been. Rest in peace. Condolences to all your beloved”, KTM confirmed on social media.
“We would also pass on our thoughts on to the Hofer family during this extremely difficult and emotional time.”
