Michael Hubner dead at 65: Six-time world cycling champion dies suddenly in hospital as tributes pour in

SIX-TIME world cycling champion Michael Hubner has passed away at the age of 65.

The German track rider won two world titles in the sprint, three in the Keirin and one in the team sprint across a five-year period between 1990 and 1995.

Prior to that, he also broke the men's 200 metre time trial world record in 1986 - which he held for one year.

He passed away in a hospital in Saxony and his death was announced by the German Cycling Federation on Tuesday.

Hubner was one of the most successful track sprinters in the world prior to his retirement in 1997.

Following his racing career, he held the role of sporting director of the track team TheedProjekt-Cycling until 2022.

The team included high-profile names such as Olympic champion Kristina Vogel and three-time Olympic medallists Lea Friedrich and Maximilian Levy.

Hubner leaves behind two sons - and German legend Vogel was quick to pay tribute to her old boss.

Speaking to German newspaper , she said: "This shocks all of us.

"You have no words, you don't know what to say. He was a sprint legend.

"He, Lutz Hesslich and Jens Fiedler were the ones who made sprinting big in Germany."

Fans on social media posted kind messages about Hubner, with one saying: "Farewell to Michael Hubner, a true legend of track cycling.

"His strength and skill inspired generations, both on the track and as a dedicated coach to young talents. Rest in peace, dear Michael."

Another added: ";Grew up watching this man mountain sprint 🚴🏻‍♂️. RIP Michael Hubner."

A third replied: "A true legend of our sport for decades. We will miss you terribly my friend."

While a fourth responded: "Hard to believe the great Michael Hubner has left us, what a superb athlete he was, R.I.P."