The legendary oarsman Olaf Tufte has died.

Olaf Tufte, twice Olympic gold medallist in rowing and close friend of Slovenian Olympian Iztok Čop, has died at the age of 51 in Norway. The cause of his death has not yet been disclosed. According to reports, he was found unconscious on his family's farm and was transported to hospital, but medical staff were unable to provide further assistance. Tufte, a long-time competitor against Čop, had been a married man and a confidant to the Slovenian athlete. The two had considered competing together in doubles around 15 years ago. Their rivalry extended beyond the water, with both athletes maintaining a friendly relationship over the years. Tufte’s career spanned seven Olympic Games, from Atlanta 1996 to Tokyo 2021. He secured two gold medals, one silver, and one bronze during his time on the international stage. His Olympic successes came in singles, notably winning gold in Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008. In Sydney 2000, he finished second in the double sculls alongside partner Fredrik Bekkn, losing to Čop and Luka Špik. At the 2016 Rio Olympics, Tufte earned a bronze in the men's double sculls. In his later years, Tufte continued to compete at a high level. At the age of 45, he participated in the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, taking part in the four-man coxless shell and finishing in ninth place. His performance demonstrated his enduring commitment to the sport despite the physical demands of competition. Beyond the Olympics, Tufte also achieved success at world championships, earning two gold medals, one silver, and three bronze awards. These accomplishments underscored his versatility and skill across different formats of rowing. His passing marks the end of a remarkable athletic journey. Colleagues and friends have expressed their condolences, highlighting his contributions to the sport and his personal relationships. While the exact circumstances of his death remain unclear, the community mourns the loss of a respected figure in rowing. The incident has prompted discussions within the sports community about the challenges faced by athletes as they transition from competitive life to retirement. Tufte’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of rowers. His story serves as a testament to dedication, resilience, and the lasting impact of a lifetime spent in pursuit of excellence.