Tom Pidcock leaves Tour de france due to COVID-19

Tom Pidcock's Tour de France journey has come to an unexpected halt due to experiencing symptoms of Covid-19, posing a potential setback to his preparations for the Olympics. The British rider will not be starting Stage 14 in the Pyrenees as illness has affected several cyclists in recent days. This is reported by SSP.

Although Pidcock narrowly missed a victory in the previous week, losing out to Anthony Turgis in Troyes, his eye was set on conquering the mountain stages before the Tour's grand finale in Nice. However, he will now focus on recovering in order to participate in the road race and defend his Olympic title in mountain biking at Paris 2024.

Ineos Grenadiers confirmed on social media that Pidcock, who had hoped to excel both as a mountain biker and on the road, is experiencing Covid-19 symptoms and has received medical advice to return home for recuperation. This news follows the struggles of fellow Olympic entrant Fred Wright, who faced illness during the Tour and finished beyond the time limit in the Massif Central during Stage 11.

Fortunately for Pidcock, the scheduling of the Olympics presents an opportunity for him to pursue double success in Paris. The men's cross-country mountain biking event will take place on Monday, July 29, five days before the road race.

Despite suggestions from some former riders and the Ineos team itself that he should prioritize the road, Pidcock remains committed to balancing his efforts in both disciplines to maximize his talent. He explained that he derives great enjoyment from mountain biking and considers it his preferred endeavor, though he recognizes his potential on the road. Pidcock envisions a career that encompasses a variety of victories, acknowledging that while he may not achieve consecutive Tour wins, he finds fulfillment in continuously challenging himself.

Having achieved notable successes in Strade Bianche, Amstel Gold Race, and a stage of the Tour de France, alongside his Olympic and cross-country mountain biking world titles, Pidcock now sets his sights on winning a Monument or a road world championship. Even if he only manages to reach the podium in the Tour de France, he firmly believes that his diverse achievements distinguish his career from others in the cycling world.