He enjoyed his own successes as a top level professional cyclist, but Nicolas Portal was also a key member of the leadership of Team Sky as Chris Froome secured four Tour de France titles.
The Frenchman, who has died aged 40, was forced to retire after just one year cycling with Sky – which became Team Ineos last year – as a result of long-standing heart problems but thereafter joined its backroom team.
A statement from Team Ineos confirmed Portal had “died suddenly” at his home in Andorra.
The French sports daily L’Equipe reported that he died of cardiac arrest. He missed most of the 2009 season because of cardiac arrhythmia.
Cyclist Chris Froome led the tributes to Portal, posting on Twitter: “My thoughts are with Nico’s wife and children tonight.
“He was the kindest, happiest guy I knew and always lived life to the fullest. Rest In Peace Nico.”
Portal led Team Ineos as its sporting director following Sean Yates’ retirement in 2012 – a role similar to head coach in football.
He was an ever present in the lead team car that follows the riders in professional cycling races, discussing tactics and processing information about the route and individual riders performances.
As a cyclist he had previously competed in the Tour de France six times and took from his own experiences to guide other pros.
Welsh professional cyclist and Team Ineos member, Geraint Thomas, added to the tributes saying: “Can’t quite get my head around it, it’s too sad.
“Nico was so talented, warm, genuine and always there when I needed him. He was more than my colleague, he was my friend.”
Team Ineos released a statement that said: “It is with the greatest sadness that we announce the passing of our much loved team mate, colleague and friend Nico Portal who died suddenly this afternoon at his home in Andorra.”
Former roommate and cyclist Peter Kennaugh also expressed his condolences saying: “My first roommate as a pro, I can’t believe the news of Nico Portal passing away.
“My thoughts and love are with his family, who he cherished more than anything.
“He was the friendliest most genuine, kind person you could wish to meet. Words can’t explain how much he will be missed.”
