British cyclist Finlay Tarling, 19, dies after crash at race in Portugal
British cyclist Finlay Tarling has died aged 19 after an accident during the eighth stage of the Volta a Portugal.
The teenager was competing for the NSN Development Team when the crash occurred on the 166.8km ride from Melgaco to Fafe.
‘The organization 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,’ race organisers confirmed.
‘At this moment of profound dismay, the organisation 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 neutralized until reaching Fafe and, as a sign of respect and mourning, the podium ceremony scheduled for today will not take place.’
Portuguese broadcaster RTP, which was televising the race, reported that Tarling was involved in a collision with a vehicle travelling in the opposite direction and not connected to the event.
According to additional reports from the broadcaster, a call of a collision involving a car and cyclist came in at 3.40pm, when the race was approximately at the halfway stage.
Tarling, who was travelling behind the peloton, immediately received medical attention but died not long after the crash.
In a statement, NSN Cycling Team added: ‘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.’
Luis Montenegro, the prime minister of Portugal, said: ‘This is news that leaves us extremely shaken. I send my heartfelt condolences, on behalf of the Portuguese government, to his family and team, as well as to the entire peloton.’
The Presidency of the Republic also issued a statement and said: “At the age of 19, Finlay Tarling died on the road while devoted to the sport he loved and brought honour to, and his death has plunged the peloton, the race and the country that welcomed him into mourning.
‘President António José Seguro also expresses his solidarity with the Volta a Portugal organisation and the Portuguese Cycling Federation, who are facing one of the most painful moments in the history of the race, and praises the dignity of the decisions taken in memory of and out of respect for the athlete.’
Tarling is the younger brother of Netcompany Ineos rider Josh and had raced for Great Britain on the road and track.
The Welshman won three bronze medals at the 2024 UCI Junior Track Cycling World Championships in China.
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