Finlay Tarling: Tributes paid to British cyclist after death during Volta a Portugal

Tributes were paid to Finlay Tarling at the Volta a Portugal after the 19-year-old British cyclist died during the race on Friday.

Riders gathered for a moment of silence before the start of stage nine in Paredes on Saturday, while Alexis Guerin, who won the stage, wore a black jersey in honour of Tarling.

Tarling's team, NSN Development, withdrew from the rest of the race following his death during an accident on stage eight - a 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 on Friday.

"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."

A statement read: "Following Fin Tarling's tragic passing, the NSN Development Team has withdrawn from the remaining Volta a Portugal stages.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

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."