Finlay Tarling, a 19-year-old British cyclist, has died after being involved in a “serious accident” while riding in the Volta a Portugal race on Friday.
Tarling, who was a member of the NSN Development Team, reportedly died after being hit by a car that was not involved in the race and was driving in the opposite direction, according to Portuguese broadcaster RTP.
The incident occurred during the eighth stage of the two-week-long race, a 166.8-km trek from Melgaco to Fafe.
“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Finlay Tarling at the Volta a Portugal today,” his team said 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.”
UCI, the world governing body of cycling, also issued a statement confirming Tarling’s death.
“The UCI is deeply saddened by the tragic death of British rider Finlay Tarling, who passed away following a serious accident during today’s 8th stage of the Volta a Portugal,” the organization posted on X. “The UCI extends its deepest condolences to Finlay’s family, friends and teammates.”
What happened in the race?
Race organizers quickly neutralized the race, and the scheduled podium ceremony was postponed out of “respect and mourning,” according to a statement.
According to the Guardian, Tarling’s teammates rode together to the finish line in a show of solidarity.
“The organization 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,” the statement said.
Portuguese President António José Seguro also expressed his condolences, saying Tarling’s death had “plunged the peloton, the tournament and the host nation into mourning.”
Who is Finlay Tarling?
Finlay Tarling was the younger brother of Josh, who is cyclist for the Netcompany Ineos team. The Welsh-born rider was following in Josh’s footsteps as a time trial specialist.
Finlay’s biggest result had been a third-place finish in the under-23 men’s individual time trial at the British Championships this past June. He also competed in the Tour of Britain last year.