FORMER Tour de France rider Walter Beneteau has died.
The popular French cyclist passed away at the age of 50, according to reports in his homeland.
The UNCP, the governing body of pro cyclists in France, broke the sad news on Twitter this afternoon.
They tweeted: “It is with great sadness that we learn of the death of our friend and former champion Walter Beneteau at the age of 50.
“Sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. RIP Wawa.”
Beneteau is believed to have died while in Bali, Indonesia, although no cause of death has yet been announced.
He raced in every Tour de France from 2000 until 2006.
His best performance came in the 2001 race when he finished 42nd.
Beneteau turned pro in 2000 after eight seasons as an amateur with Vendee U.
He raced under the colours of Bonjour (2000-2002), Brioche-la-Boulangere (2003-2004) and Bouygues Telecom (2005-2006) during his Tour de France outings, all of which he finished.
Beneteau finished 83rd overall in his final Grand Tour and announced he would retire after his contract ended with Bouygues Telecom in 2006 as he had not received any other offers.
One fan reacted to the news by tweeting: “RIP WALTER BENÉTEAU, who died far too young at the age of 50…”
Another shared a photo of themselves as a youngster with the late star and wrote: “Thank you Walter Beneteau for this photo at the start of the ‘Vannes-Vitré’ stage of the ‘Tour’ 2000….RIP.”
