Finlay Tarling’s team withdraws from Volta a Portugal after British cyclist’s death

Finlay Tarling's team, NSN Development, have withdrawn from the remaining stages of the Volta a Portugal following the British cyclist's death.

The 19-year-old died after an accident during the race's eighth stage on Friday.

Tarling was competing for the Swiss-based team when the incident occurred on the 166.8km route from Melgaço to Fafe.

"We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Finlay Tarling at the Volta a Portugal today," NSN confirmed in a statement.

"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."

NSN confirmed their withdrawal from the remaining Volta a Portugal stages.

A statement read: "Following Fin Tarling's tragic passing, the NSN Development Team has withdrawn from the remaining Volta a Portugal stages.

"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 honor, doing what he loved most.

"We want to thank everyone in the cycling community and beyond for the incredible support at this difficult time."

Portugal's RTP broadcaster ⁠said Tarling was hit by a non-race car driving in the opposite direction.

Portuguese President Antonio Jose ⁠Seguro expressed his condolences, saying ​Tarling's death had "plunged the peloton, the tournament ​and the host nation into mourning."

Volta a Portugal released a statement saying: "The organisation of the 87th Volta a Portugal deeply regrets to announce the passing of British cyclist Finlay Tarling, from the NSN Development Team, following a serious accident that occurred during the eighth stage of the race.

"At this moment of profound dismay, the organisation of the Volta a Portugal and the Portuguese Cycling Federation express their most heartfelt condolences to the family of Finlay Tarling, to his teammates, to the NSN Development Team, and to all his friends and loved ones.

"In light of this tragic event, the race will be neutralised until reaching Fafe and, as a sign of respect and mourning, the podium ceremony scheduled for today will not take place."

British Cycling 'heartbroken at devastating news'

A British Cycling statement read: "British Cycling is deeply saddened to learn of the death of 19-year-old British cyclist Finlay Tarling following an incident at the Volta a Portugal today.

"Finlay was a valued member of the Great Britain Cycling Team and a highly respected figure within our sport. His passing is devastating news for everyone who knew him and for the wider cycling community.

"Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Finlay's parents, brother Josh, family, friends, teammates and all those affected by this tragic loss.

"British Cycling will work with Finlay's family and NSN Cycling Team to ensure the cycling community has appropriate opportunities to pay tribute to his memory. Updates will be shared as and when appropriate."

Stephen Park, Performance Director for the Great Britain Cycling Team, 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.

Lee Gibbons, Interim Group CEO of British Cycling, said: "Today, the thoughts of everyone at British Cycling are with Fin's family, friends and teammates as they come to terms with an unimaginable loss. Fin was not only an exceptional young athlete with enormous potential, but a young man whose character, warmth and dedication left a lasting impression on those around him.

"The Tarling family have long been valued members of the British Cycling community, and this news will be felt profoundly by so many people across our sport. At moments like this, competition and results fade into insignificance, and we are reminded of the strength of the relationships and bonds that unite our cycling family.

"On behalf of everyone at British Cycling, I would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to Fin's parents Michael and Dawn, his brother Josh and all those who knew and loved him. Our thoughts remain with them at this incredibly difficult time."