Covid-19 is once again threatening the Tour de France. Since the grand start in Florence on June 29, several riders have had to throw in the towel, contaminated by the virus. This was notably the case for Juan Ayuso, one of Tadej Pogacar’s lieutenants, Tom Pidcock, Mikael Morkov and Pello Bilbao. This Monday, during the second rest day, a new case was added, that of Maxim Van Gils.
Concern is therefore growing within the peloton, and several favorites, including Remco Evenepoel, have decided to wear masks again when surrounded by the public at the start and finish. The organizers have not failed to react either. This Sunday morning, new instructions were issued, in particular for journalists, guests and the organization.
“In order to limit health risks, wearing a mask is now mandatory in the different areas where you will be in contact with the riders and members of the cycling teams: the mixed zone at the start, the mixed protocol zone, the back of the line and the team bus paddocks,” we can read in a press release. While withdrawal from the race is not mandatory in the event of symptoms, the majority of teams are not taking any risks. Only Geraint Thomas, despite some clues, continued the race.