Welsh cyclist Josh Tarling has abandoned the Vuelta a España during Thursday's sixth stage, ending his brave return to racing less than two weeks after the death of his younger brother Finlay.
The 22-year-old Netcompany-Ineos rider had started the stage from Alcossebre but climbed off during the early stages of the 177.4km route to Castelló. Reports indicated he had abandoned with more than 120km still remaining.
No reason given for withdrawal
No reason has been given for Tarling's withdrawal, however his team said in a social media statement: "Josh Tarling's brave La Vuelta has come to an end and he's decided to stop. We couldn't be prouder."
Tarling's participation in the Spanish Grand Tour had been one of the most poignant stories in cycling after his younger brother Finlay died during the Volta a Portugal on August 14. The 19-year-old was involved in a serious accident during the eighth stage of the race, with organisers later confirming his death.
Raced in honour of his brother
Josh nevertheless chose to take part in the Vuelta, beginning the race in Monaco on Saturday with the full backing of his family and team. His parents said before the race that he had "chosen to do so in honour of his brother Fin", adding that the family supported his decision.
Tarling produced a remarkable performance in the opening 9.4km individual time trial, finishing third behind eventual winner Tadej Pogačar. He was just four seconds behind the Slovenian and briefly held the stage lead, while also taking the young rider's white jersey.
Speaking after that performance, Tarling said he was grateful to have been given the opportunity to race and had given everything he had.
Supporting role and fundraising
The Welshman subsequently settled into a supporting role for Netcompany-Ineos leader Oscar Onley, dropping down the general classification as he worked for his team-mates. But his Vuelta has now come to an end after five completed stages.
The decision comes after an extraordinary period for Tarling, who has been dealing with the loss of his younger brother while continuing to compete at the highest level of the sport.
The cycling world has rallied around the Tarling family since Finlay's death, with a fundraising campaign established in his memory to support young Welsh cyclists. The fundraiser has already raised more than £90,000.
