Lieuwe Westra, a Dutch former professional cyclist who retired in 2017, has passed away at the age of 40 after a battle with depression, according to biographer Thomas Sijtsma who announced the news today.
Former cyclist Westra faced ongoing personal struggles in the years leading up to his retirement, and his passing was confirmed by Sijtsma on social media. The cause of death was not disclosed, and the family requested privacy as they shared the news.
His family posted on Facebook that Westra was at his company’s premises on Saturday afternoon. Local Dutch media reported that emergency responders attempted to revive him, but those efforts were unsuccessful.
In a statement, they reflected on Westra’s years in the sport, noting that the end of his cycling career and the transition away from professional competition were difficult. They asked fans to remember him for the moments of joy and strength he displayed during his best days as a rider.
During his career, Westra rode for teams including Vancansoleil DCM (2009–2013), Astana (2014–2016), and Wanty Group Gobert. He claimed the Dutch Time Trial Championship twice and earned stage wins at Paris-Nice in 2012, as well as podium finishes in the Tour of Catalonia and the Dauphiné in 2014. His performances placed him among the notable time trial specialists of his era.
The announcement notes that Westra concluded his competitive cycling in early 2017. In a later television interview, he described the period after retirement as challenging and highlighted depression as a barrier to continuing in the sport he loved.
The family has requested privacy during this time and indicated that Westra will be remembered with respect and appreciation at a modest, quiet ceremony. They asked supporters to honor his privacy as they process this loss.
Johnny Hogerland, a former teammate from Vancansoleil, expressed his condolences on social media. He said he was deeply saddened by the news and admitted that he wished he could have offered more help to his fellow rider in recent years. The message underscored the personal toll that mental health struggles can take, even on athletes who achieved professional success.