Team-BikeExchange-Jayco leader Simon Yates has been forced to withdraw from La Vuelta a España after testing positive for COVID-19 ahead of today’s stage 11.
Yates, a former winner of the race in 2018, currently sits in fifth position on the general classification, having moved up one place after yesterday’s individual time trial stage from Elche to Alicante.
The 30-year-old suffered with mild symptoms overnight and returned a positive test this morning, and in accordance with strict team policy, Yates will not continue in La Vuelta.
Team BikeExchange-Jayco’s medical team will carry out further testing to ensure the safety of other team riders and staff members.
Dani Castillo – Team Doctor
“During the night our rider Simon Yates had some COVID-19 symptoms with a light fever and body aches. We carried out a COVID-19 test this morning and unfortunately, he has returned a positive test result, and will therefore not be taking to the start line of today’s 11th stage, with rider health and wellbeing our priority.”
Photo: Getty Images
