Edwin Straver has died as a result of his injuries sustained in a crash at the Dakar Rally.

The 48-year-old Dutch motorcycle rider crashed 124km into Stage 11 at this year’s Dakar Rally and was found by a medical helicopter crew who gave him immediate treatment before he was airlifted to hospital in Riyadh.

Straver was repatriated to the Netherlands on Wednesday before his death was confirmed by his family. The Dutch rider was competing in his third Dakar Rally having finished 30th overall and first in the Original by Motul class in 2019.

Straver becomes the second competitor to die at this year’s Dakar Rally following the passing of fellow motorcycle class rider Paulo Goncalves who suffered a cardiac arrest after a fall during Stage 7.

Dakar Rally statement:

“This morning, the Dakar Organisation were informed by his family that Dutch biker Edwin Straver, who crashed 124 km into the timed sector timed special of stage 11 (SHUBAYTAH–HARADH) on Thursday, 16th January 2020, has died as a result of his injuries.

“The medical team immediately dispatched by helicopter found Edwin in cardiac arrest and proceeded with resuscitation efforts. He was then airlifted to hospital in Riyadh where he was admitted to the intensive care unit before being later repatriated back to the Netherlands on Wednesday.

“48-year-old Edwin Straver, a former motocross rider, was taking part in his third Dakar. He finished 30th overall and first in the Original by Motul class in 2019. He entered the same class this year.

“The entire Dakar caravan would like to extend its sincere condolences to Edwin's family and friends.”