Marianna Vos (Visma-Lease a Bike) confirmed on Sunday that a spectator had thrown something over her on her way to victory at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and now the Belgian police say they have identified the person involved.
While some of those commenting on the images initially suggested beer had been thrown over the rider, who was seen to wipe her face immediately afterwards, it looked like clear liquid, perhaps bottled water.
However, the police in Belgium say the incident had caused widespread annoyance, and promoted a lot of comment, in cycling circles and they had been examining the matter.
While the incident could be treated as assault, it was not clear if would go that far, with the spectator being asked to speak to police rather that being arrested.
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“Unfortunately, this wonderful sporting event was overshadowed by an incident in which Marianne Vos had a cup of drink thrown in the face by a spectator. This incident sparked outrage within the cycling community,” the police have now said.
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The local chief of police has said after the spectator has been spoken to, an assessment of what happened would be made.
“Immediately after the incident, we took all necessary steps and acted decisively,” said chief of police, Patrice De Mets. “The perpetrator has now been identified. We have invited this person for questioning to take responsibility for his behavior.”
The incident occurred on the Muur van Geraardsbergen, with about 16km to go, and just before Vos pulled clear in what would prove the winning four-rider group. The incident was caught on TV, with Vos commenting on it after being asked by the media.
“I did indeed get something over me. That is not part of it and it is a shame, but yes… It happened,” Vos said.
