Former Olympic cyclist Toshiaki Fushimi has died due to critical injuries suffered during a horrific crash during a bike race on Saturday.
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Fushimi, 50, crashed into a barricade after swerving to avoid a pile-up collision ahead of him, according to U.K. newspaper Metro.
Fushimi sustained fractures to his cervical vertebrae and skull, Metro and The Independent reported.
The sport's national governing body, the Japan Keirin Association (JKA), announced that the Olympic medalist was hospitalized, but succumbed to his injuries at 10:15 AM on Sunday.
The chairman of the JKA, Hiroshi Kido, said: "It is truly heartbreaking that he lost his life in an accident during a race. We will reconfirm our safety measures and thoroughly ensure fair and safe races."
Fushimi began his pro cycling career in 1995. Over his storied career, the Japanese cyclist won 619 races, five G1 titles and the Keirin Grand Prix twice in 2001 and 2007.
Alongside Tomohiro Nagatsuka and Masaki Inoue, Fushimi won Olympic silver in the team sprint at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, The Independent reported.
Following a four-year hiatus, he returned to racing this May.
Cycling Community Pays Respects to Fushimi
Malaysian retired professional cyclist Josiah Ng Onn Lam paid tribute to the late Fushimi on Instagram.
"R.I.P. Fushimi San," he wrote. "Toshiaki Fushimi wasn't just a competitor. He was one of the best keirin riders Japan has ever produced. Grand Prix winner. Olympic Silver Medalist. A true professional on the track."
"We raced against each other for years. That kind of rivalry builds a respect that doesn't fade," he continued. "Devastated to hear he lost his life doing what he loved. My thoughts are with his family and the entire keirin community in Japan. Rest in peace, champion."
Fellow Racer Yudai Nitta also issued a statement thanking the cycling legend, whom he considered a mentor. Nitta added that he plans to honor Fushimi with his performance in future races.
Nitta wrote: "He was the one who taught me what it means to be able to participate in the Olympics. He also taught me how to behave when competing as a keirin racer.
"Fushimi was someone who always sought results. Those of us who are left behind want to respond by producing results. I think that would make him happy."
