Glasgow mountain biker and coach Rab Wardell has died.

Scottish Cycling confirmed on Tuesday evening that he died in his sleep, aged 37.

Two days earlier, he won the elite men’s title at Kirroughtree Forest, overcoming several punctures to win on the final lap.

He appeared on BBC Scotland’s The Nine programme on Monday evening to talk about his victory but died later that night.

Scottish Cycling said: "We are devastated to confirm the news that international mountain biker & former employee, Rab Wardell, has passed away today.

"We have very little information at this stage, but we send our love & support to his family, friends & all those in our community who knew him."

Organisations and individuals have paid tribute to the biker, who was loved by many.

In a statement, British Cycling said: "Everybody at British Cycling is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Rab Wardell.

"Rab was a brilliant rider, friend and ambassador for our sport, and will be sorely missed by so many. Our thoughts are with his family and many friends at this incredibly difficult time."

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Track cyclist Katie Archibald shared: "I think you've heard that Rab died yesterday morning.

"I still don't understand what's happened; if this is real; why he'd be taken now - so healthy and happy. He went into cardiac arrest while we were lying in bed. I tried and tried, and the paramedics arrived within minutes, but his heart stopped and they couldn't bring him back. Mine stopped with it.

"I love him so much and need him here with me. I need him here so badly, but he's gone. I can't describe this pain.

"Thank you to those making tributes. I can't bear to talk about him in the past tense to say anything myself.

"You mean everything to me, Rab. I love you."

 

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Fans were shocked and upset by the news as they paid farewell to the sportsman.

One person said: "Really nice guy. This is a sad loss. Condolences to all who knew him."

Another added: "RIP Rab Waddell, many great cycling achievements. Condolences to his family and loved ones."

A third shared: "Very sad news, thoughts with his family and friends."

Rab Wardell was born in Dunfermline and lived in Glasgow.

During his career as a professional cyclist, he represented Scotland in the Commonwealth Games, won the Scottish Championship and set the fastest known time for mountain biking the iconic West Highland Way in 2020.