Rohan Dennis dropped from Tour Down Under role after wife’s death, charges

Rohan Dennis, who is facing a number of criminal charges after the death of his wife Melissa Hoskins in a vehicle incident, has been dropped by the Tour Down Under. The former pro cyclist, whose retirement from the sport officially begins today, had been due to lead a ‘family ride’ being held by the race organisers.

However, the race organisation has said, given the events of the last 48 hours, the 33-year-old former two-time TT world champion, would now play no role in the race or the activities linked to it.

Dennis had been due to appear at the family ride on January 13th, around the Down Under Classic street circuit in the Adelaide central business district. However, as well as issuing a statement, the event organisers have also removed his details from the event’s website following the death of Hoskins, a mother of two.

“We are devastated by the news of Melissa Hoskins’ death. It’s an extremely tragic situation which has seen the loss of a young mum and champion cyclist,” the Tour Down Under statement said.

“We would like to express our deepest sympathies to all those impacted including family, friends and the broader cycling community.

“Given the circumstances, Rohan Dennis will no longer be participating in activities in the Santos Tour Down Under 2024.”

Dennis has been charged with several alleged crimes following the death of his wife in a car incident. It is alleged he was behind the wheel when Hoskins, an Olympian and former world champion on the track, was struck by a vehicle in Adelaide and sustained fatal injuries.

While the 32-year-old was treated at the scene on the evening of December 30th, and taken to hospital, she later died of her injuries.

Dennis was arrested in Medindie, Adelaide, close to the family home where the incident occurred, and questioned by police. He has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving as well as driving without due care and endangering a life.

He has since been released on bail and was due to appear in court to face charges in March. That court appearance – before Adelaide Magistrates Court – was scheduled for March 13th.