Cycling
Finlay Tarling’s team withdraws from Volta a Portugal following teenager’s death
NSN Development have withdrawn from the remaining stages of the Volta a Portugal following the death of their rider Finlay Tarling.
Organisers confirmed Saturday’s penultimate stage would continue “in an atmosphere of profound mourning”, with tributes paid to the 19-year-old before the start.
“We all remain deeply shaken. Cycling is a sport that carries risks, but we are never prepared for a tragedy of this magnitude,” said a statement.
“Finlay lost his life. A family lost a son. A team lost a team-mate. Cycling lost one of its own. It is a tragedy that goes beyond the competition itself.
“As a sign of respect and mourning, the event’s main sponsors have agreed with the organisation to cancel all activities planned for the final two days.
“The race continues. There will be sporting competition, but there will be no celebration. This Saturday, the Volta rides for Finlay.”
Tarling, the younger brother of Ineos Grenadiers cyclist Josh, was taking part in the eighth stage in the north of the country when the accident happened.
“Following Fin Tarling’s tragic passing on Friday, the NSN Development Team has withdrawn from the remaining Volta a Portugal stages,” said a team statement.
“With the full support of Fin’s parents, the WorldTour team will race on at Czech Tour and the Arctic Race of Norway. We will continue to hold Fin in our hearts as we race in his honour, doing what he loved most.
“We want to thank everyone in the cycling community and beyond for the incredible support at this difficult time.”
Major Tiago Machado of the National Republican Guard (GNR) told local media the cyclist was in collision with a light goods vehicle.
The Volta statement added: “This is not the time for speculation about the circumstances of the accident.
“The incident is being investigated by the GNR Command, which is responsible for rigorously establishing the facts.”
