British cyclist Finlay Tarling has died aged 19 following a serious accident at the Volta a Portugal during the eighth stage of the race. The Welshman was competing for the NSN Development Team when the incident happened on the 166.8km route from Melgaço to Fafe.
Team's emotional tribute
In an emotional statement, NSN said: "We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Finlay Tarling at the Volta a Portugal today. 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."
Race organisers' response
Race organisers and the Portuguese Cycling Federation expressed their "most heartfelt condolences" in a statement. They said the race had been "neutralised" and there would be no podium ceremony as a sign of "respect and mourning." The statement read: "The organisation of the 87th Volta a Portugal em Bicicleta Jogos Santa Casa deeply regrets to announce the death of British rider Finlay Tarling, of NSN Development Team, following a serious accident during Stage 8 of the race, between Melgaço and Fafe. At this moment of profound shock and sadness, the Volta a Portugal organisation and the Portuguese Cycling Federation extend their deepest condolences to Finlay Tarling's family, his team-mates, NSN Development Team and all of his friends and loved ones."
They added: "In light of this tragic event, the race will be neutralised through to the finish in Fafe and, as a mark of respect and mourning, today's planned podium ceremony will not take place. The organisation will provide further information as soon as circumstances allow."
National mourning
António José Seguro, president of Portugal, said that Tarling's death had "plunged the peloton, the tournament and the host nation into mourning." Tarling had raced for Great Britain on both track and road, and is the younger brother of Netcompany Ineos rider Josh Tarling.
