Former World Champion Claude Criquielion dies aged 58

The 1984 world road race champion, Claude Criquielion, has died in hospital in Aalst at the age of 58, three days after suffering a severe stroke.

Born in Lessines in Belgium, Criquielion turned professional in 1979 and raced until 1991. He was later directeur sportif of the Lotto-Adecco team from 2000 to 2004.

Criquielion’s career high came in 1984 when he won the world road race championship in Barcelona.

Another world title almost followed in 1988, but within sight of the finish, he collided with Canada’s Steve Bauer who was ultimately disqualified. Criquielion later sued Bauer for assault, demanding $1.5 million, but lost the case.

He also won La Flèche Wallonne twice – in 1985 while world champion, and again in 1989. Between those successes, he also won the Tour of Flanders in 1987 and recorded his best finish of fifth in the Tour de France – one of five top-10 finishes in La Grande Boucle. He also finished third in the Vuelta a Espana in 1980.

Criquielion’s death was confirmed by the Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel, who described him as ‘a great champion.’