Remco Evenepoel, who just regained the Giro d’Italia‘s maglia rosa in Stage 9 of the 2023 race, was forced to abandon the first Grand Tour of the season after a routine test taken ahead of the first rest day came back positive for Covid-19.
The 23-year-old World Champion, who was making his second Giro d’Italia appearance, had enjoyed prior to this a strong first week, winning two stages and taking four pink jerseys.
“I am really sorry to be leaving the race. As part of the team’s protocol, I took a routine test, which unfortunately was positive. My experience here has been really special and I was looking forward to competing over the next two weeks. I can’t thank enough the staff and the riders who sacrificed so much in preparation for the Giro. I will be cheering them on over the next two weeks”, said Remco, who will travel home on Monday by car.
All the other Soudal Quick-Step riders and staff were tested and are negative.
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