British cyclist Finlay Tarling dies aged 19 after crash at Volta a Portugal
British cyclist Finlay Tarling has died aged 19 following a tragic accident during the eighth stage of the Volta a Portugal. Tarling, the younger brother of Ineos Grenadiers rider Josh, had raced for Great Britain on both the road and track.
The Welsh teenager was competing for the NSN Development Team on Friday and the incident occurred on the 166.8km route from Melgaco to Fafe. No details regarding the nature of the incident have been released.
NSN announced his death in a statement which read: "We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Finlay Tarling at the Volta a Portugal today.
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. Rest in peace, Fin."
The Portuguese Cycling Federation also issued a statement which confirmed the race had been neutralised and that the scheduled podium ceremony would not take place as a sign of ’respect and mourning’.
It said: "The organisation of the 87th Volta a Portugal em Bicicleta Jogos Santa Casa deeply regrets to announce the passing of British cyclist Finlay Tarling, from the NSN Development Team, following a serious accident that occurred during the 8th stage of the race.
"At this moment of profound dismay, 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.
"In light of this tragic event, the race will be neutralised until reaching Fafe and, as a sign of respect and mourning, the podium ceremony scheduled for today will not take place. The organisation will provide all additional information as soon as conditions allow it to do so."
Stephen Park CBE, Performance Director for the Great Britain Cycling Team, paid tribute by saying: "All of us at British Cycling are heartbroken to learn of the tragic passing of Finlay Tarling at the Volta a Portugal.
"Fin was a talented rider with a fantastic future ahead of him, a loyal teammate and an all-round brilliant young man. Our deepest sympathies are with his parents and brother, Josh at this tragic time."
In the comments of NSN’s Facebook post, fans from around the world offered their condolences to Tarling’s family, loved ones and his team. "This is terrible, shocking news," one wrote. "My deepest condolences to Fin’s family, the team, and the whole cycling family."
"Such sad news," another added. "Deepest condolences to Finlay’s family and the wider cycling community."
"Deepest condolences to the family, friends and teammates as this is heartbreaking," a third posted. "May you rest in peace."
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