Canadian skier Nick Zoricic has died following a horrific crash in a skicross race at World Cup in Switzerland.

Bosnian-born racer Nick Zoricic, 29, suffered fatal head injuries when he collided with safety nets at the side of the course after going wide over the final jump.

Organisers abandoned the Grindelwald event after Saturday’s incident.

It is the second tragedy to stun Canadian sport recently following freestyle skier Sarah Burke’s death after a training accident in January.

Television pictures showed Nick Zoricic fell through the nets as his skis and poles were thrown clear.

Nick Zoricic was treated on the course before being airlifted by helicopter to hospital for further treatment.

Canadian skier Nick Zoricic has died following a horrific crash in a skicross race at World Cup in Switzerland

The International Ski Federation (FIS) confirmed Nick Zoricic died from his injuries at 11:35 GMT.

A statement from the governing body said: “Nick Zoricic fell heavily just before the finish in the round of eight, crashing directly into the safety netting and thereafter lying motionless.

“The organising committee, FIS and [event organisers] Swiss Ski express their deepest condolences to the family and friends of Nick Zoricic and the Canadian ski team.”

Nick Zoricic raced on the World Cup circuit for more than three years after beginning his career as an alpine skier.

He finished eighth in the 2011 World Championships held in Utah, United States.

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