The cycling community paid tribute to Nicolas Portal after news broke that he died of a heart attack on Tuesday. He was 40 years old.

Portal was a highly respected team manager and former professional athlete with numerous accolades and accomplishments.

More than that, he was one of the most honest and likeable people in the sport. He always had time to "ask one more question" and never failed to defend his riders when acting fair and just.

He was a gentleman and friend to many. There is an abundance of sadness, love, and respect in the many obituaries that illustrate how much he was loved and admired.

The tributes on these pages will never be enough to do justice to Nicholas' short life, but here are just a few that help us remember him.