July 14, (THEWILL) – The Tour de France has reintroduced protective measures against COVID-19 due to increased cases among riders. Organisers announced on Sunday that masks must now be worn by everyone who may come into contact with cyclists and team members before and after stages.
Several riders have already left the race after testing positive, including British cyclist Tom Pidcock and Juan Ayuso, a teammate of current yellow jersey holder Tadej Pogacar. Pogacar himself reported being affected by the virus in mid-June, while 2018 winner Geraint Thomas is continuing despite “slight symptoms”.
Some riders had already begun wearing masks again in recent days. Remco Evenepoel, currently third overall, explained he was doing so because journalists near him were not masked.
The new measures aim to “limit health risks” as COVID-19 cases rise once again. They apply to organisers, guests, journalists and others, who interact closely with riders and teams.
These stricter protocols mark a return to pandemic-era precautions for cycling’s biggest event. With positive tests forcing withdrawals and potentially impacting the race outcome, controlling the spread of the virus has become a renewed priority for Tour organisers in 2024.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
