Evenepoel withdraws from the Giro because of covid

Belgian cyclist Remco Evenepoel (Soudal Quick-Step) ended its participation in Italy spin this Sunday after the donation positive for coronavirus in the team test. “It is with all my regret that I have to announce that I am withdrawing from the Giro d’Italia due to the coronavirus, after a routine test in which I unfortunately tested positive,” the driver himself announced a few hours after becoming the winner of the ninth stage.

Evenepoel won this Sunday’s 35km time trial on the flat between 35 Savignano sul Rubicone and Cesena to take the overall lead. However, the young Belgian and his team announced their retirement after a great first week. “My experience here is really special and I’m really looking forward to racing in the next two weeks. I can’t thank the staff and riders enough who have sacrificed so much in preparation for the Giro. I will be cheering them on for the next two weeks,” added the world champion.

Evenepoel indulged his favoritism and wore the pink outfit on day four, albeit without the superiority he showed in the time trial on day one. The Soudal Quick-Step runner was first this Sunday, but had Britain’s INEOS Grenadiers Geraint Thomas and Tao Geoghegan Hart by one and two seconds respectively. In the general standings, the Belgian was first with a 45-second advantage over Thomas, who becomes the new leader. On the other hand, Slovenian Primoz Roglic (Jumbo-Visma) is now second, just two seconds behind the Briton, and Geoghegan Hart, third, five seconds behind. This Monday is a rest day in Gir, which has lost one of its attractions.