Covid: Alpecin-Fenix quit UAE Tour after staffer tests positive

Alpecin-Fenix is withdrawing its team from the UAE Tour, in agreement with the UAE Tour organiser and the jury, in order to safeguard the race bubble and ensure the safe continuation of the race.

Earlier, it was reported that one staff member had tested positive for Covid-19 in tests conducted on Sunday evening.

The staffer went into isolation immediately, in compliance with protocols put in place by race organisers and UAE health authorities. All those in contact with the infected person were also put into self-isolation.

Alpecin-Fenix is withdrawing its team from the UAE Tour, in agreement with the UAE Tour organiser and the jury, in order to safeguard the race bubble and ensure the safe continuation of the race.

— (@admediaoffice) February 22, 2021

Dutch cyclist Der Poel of Alpecin-Fenix team took the Stage One honours of the UAE Tour on Sunday.

Organisers of the UAE Tour have implemented rigorous protocols prior to and throughout the event, in collaboration with UAE health authorities — including frequent testing for all riders and staff, in order to maintain the highest safety standards and to protect the health of all involved in the event.