Workforce Bahrain Victorious had already withdrawn from the race on Friday, and Tudor and Intermarche joined them in unity previous to Saturday’s 7th level. Regardless of the organisers’ determination to proceed the race then consulting the groups and Maeder’s people, Tudor and Intermarche felt it was once important to pull out.
Tudor introduced their determination on Twitter, declaring, “After careful consideration and talking to both riders and staff, the team decided not to continue racing this year’s Tour de Suisse. Under these difficult circumstances, we feel it is the human way to respect the feelings of our riders and pay respect to Gino.”
Intermarche echoed this sentiment, posting on social media, “After consultations with our riders and staff, we have decided to withdraw from the Tour of Switzerland. Our priority is to respect the mental health of our riders.”
Following the inside track of Maeder’s dreadful passing, a 20-kilometre trip was once organised in his celebrate, changing the 6th level. Alternatively, the organisers in the long run made up our minds in opposition to cancelling all the excursion.
“After an emotional day and a very touching ride in memory of Gino Maeder, it was decided in consultation with the family of Gino Maeder that the Tour of Switzerland will continue,” stated race director Olivier Senn on Friday.
Maeder’s premature demise caused an outpouring of tributes from the biking population, with two-time Tour de France champion Tadej Pogacar posting on Instagram, “Rest in peace! I will miss you.” Primoz Roglic, every other Slovenian bicycle owner and just lately topped Giro d’Italia winner, tweeted, “Speechless.”
The 7th level, scheduled for Saturday, would have taken the cyclists on a 184-kilometre trip from Tubach to Weinfelden. The 8th and ultimate level on Sunday is a 26-kilometre day trial from St. Gallen to Abtwil.
(With inputs from AFP)
