EvoPro Racing, Ireland's only UCI Continental men's team, has been forced to withdraw from Rás Tailteann due to an outbreak of Covid-19 within the team camp.
Last week it emerged its team leader for the race, Conn McDunphy, had contracted the virus and was out of the Irish stage race, which starts in Dublin today. However, now there have been other cases in the the camp and, sadly, the team has been forced out.
It is a bitter blow to the squad, which was due to field a young and developing team of Irish riders in the five-stage race. Their chance to sample the Rás for the first time in their careers has now been taken away from them, though hopefully they will get other opportunities in the years ahead.
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The team’s co-owner, Morgan Fox, said he regretted having to make the decision to withdraw on the eve of the race. However, with Rás team riders Liam Curley and Cian Keogh also coming down with the virus, he was left with no option. The outbreak appears have begun between the end of the Ronde de l’Oise stage race and Paris-Troyes on June 6th.
“In the interest of safety to other competitors, the race officials, our riders and of course the general public I have made the decision to withdraw the team," Fox said. "It is too risky and I am conscious of the potential consequences especially to the elderly or infirm. I have expressed my concerns of a recent upsurge in peloton cases and hope that it can be contained.
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“It is a difficult decision and one based on ethics rather than just regulations. I will not be responsible for a transmission of the virus with the information I have to hand. Three of my original six prospects for the Rás have come down within six days and that is simply a warning too ominous to ignore.
“My riders are disappointed and have suggested ways we could race compliantly. We’ve had a lengthy discussion today. However the risk is too great in my mind. We, as a team, look forward to targeting our many other goals this season including our team racing in Mid Brabant Port Epic 1.2 on Sunday,” he said of riding that race with a different group of riders.
“We have tried our absolute best to contain the transmission. We have followed every protocol and advice given by UCI and team physicians. However, we still could not avoid it. Our riders are entirely UCI Covid-compliant and have been for three seasons now.
“This is our first time in this situation which I feel is testimony to our protocols and diligence as a team. Unfortunately nobody seems to be immune despite best efforts.
“We wish the Rás and all competitors and crews the very best this week. We wish you a safe and fun week with some great racing on Irish roads . It’s great to see the race back and we will surely make the start in 2023.”
