Cycling:Wouter Weylandt's team announced they have pulled out of the Giro d'Italia following the death of their Belgian team-mate yesterday.
Weylandt was killed after crashing towards the end of stage three but prior to today’s fourth stage. Leopard Trek insisted they would continue to take part after suggestions they would withdraw.
However, the team have now confirmed they will take no further part in the race and released a statement which read: “The riders of Leopard Trek wish to communicate that they will leave the Giro d’Italia as of tonight, following the tragic accident of their teammate and friend Wouter Weylandt.
“This choice of the riders has the full support of the staff and management of Leopard Trek.”
General manager Brian Nygaard: “The decision needed to be taken by the riders, because they are the ones that participate in the race. We have always said that we would stand behind their choice.
“We wish to thank the other teams, the race organisation RCS, the Italian authorities and all the fans on the road between Genova and Livorno on today’s stage, as the peloton paid tribute to Wouter Weylandt.”
Team captain Fabian Wegmann added. “We have a lot of respect for the Giro d’Italia and for cycling, but we simply cannot continue racing given the circumstances. We are professional athletes, but we feel this is the right thing to do.”