Source : ABC NEWS
A 19-year-old British cyclist has been killed in an accident during the eighth stage of the Volta a Portugal.
Welsh rider Finlay Tarling died after “a collision between the cyclist and a light goods vehicle”, Major Tiago Machado of the National Republican Guard said in a statement.
An investigation is underway, according to local authorities.
Tarling, the younger brother of Netcompany-Ineos rider Josh, had raced for Great Britain on the road and track.
He was competing for the NSN Development Team when the incident occurred on the 166.8-kilometre route from Melgaco to Fafe.
Riders are seen in Fafe, Portugal, reacting to the news that Finlay Tarling had died. (Getty Images: Miguel Lemos/NurPhoto)
In a statement, NSN said the team was heartbroken to announce Tarling’s passing.
“Fin was a much-loved member of our team but most importantly, he was a son, a brother, and a friend to so many. He will be deeply missed.
“Our deepest condolences go out to Fin’s parents Michael and Dawn, his brother Josh, and everyone who was lucky enough to call Fin a friend.”
In a post on X, the race organisers and the Portuguese Cycling Federation also expressed their “most heartfelt condolences to the family of Finlay Tarling, to his team-mates, to the NSN Development Team, and to all his friends and loved ones”.
It added that the racing was stopped and the scheduled podium ceremony would not take place as a sign of “respect and mourning”.
Portuguese president António José Seguro said that Tarling’s death had “plunged the peloton, the tournament and the host nation into mourning”.
British Cycling’s performance director Stephen Park added: “All of us at British Cycling are heartbroken to learn of the tragic passing of Finlay Tarling at the Volta a Portugal.
“Fin was a talented rider with a fantastic future ahead of him, a loyal teammate and an all-round brilliant young man.
“Our deepest sympathies are with his parents and brother, Josh, at this tragic time.”
