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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
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PA Sports

Chris Froome and Mark Cavendish among cyclists to be tested for coronavirus

Four-time Tour de France winner Chris Froome and star sprinter Mark Cavendish are among riders who will be tested for the coronavirus after the UAE Tour was cancelled amid health fears on Thursday.

The final two stages of the race were due to take place on Friday and Saturday but the race was abandoned after two members of staff on the race tested positive for the virus.

All riders and staff were confined to their rooms at the Crowne Royal Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island.

Froome, who was using the race to make his long-awaited comeback from the career-threatening injuries he suffered last June, posted on Twitter that he was awaiting a test for coronavirus.

"It's a shame that the #UAETour has been cancelled but public health must come first," the Team Ineos rider wrote.

Chris Froome confirmed he is awaiting a test for coronavirus (ALI HAIDER/EPA-EFE/REX)

"We are all awaiting testing and will remain at the hotel until further notice. I hope those affected make a speedy recovery and there aren't any further cases #coronavirus"

A tweet from the Jumbo-Visma team said: "We have taken note of the cancellation of the UAE Tour due to the occurrence of the coronavirus.

"We wish all the people involved the very best, awaiting further developments."

The seven-stage race began on Sunday.

Mark Cavendish will also undergo testing as riders were confined to their hotel rooms (AFP via Getty Images)

Britain's Adam Yates, riding for Mitchelton-Scott, was in the leader's red jersey following Thursday's stage five to Jebel Hafeet.

A statement from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council said: "The Abu Dhabi Sports Council has cancelled the remaining rounds of the 2020 UAE Tour after two Italian participants had tested positive for the novel coronavirus, known as COVID-19.

"The decision has been taken to ensure protection of all the race's participants as safety comes at the top of all priorities.

Britain's Adam Yates was leading the UAE Tour when the race was cancelled on Thursday (AFP via Getty Images)

"In the meantime, the Ministry of Health and Prevention said that all the race's participants, administrative staff and organisers will be examined through the continuous periodic screening being conducted, and all needed procedures, including quarantine measures, will be taken to ensure viral suppression and curb the spread of its outbreak in coordination with all health and other authorities concerned in the country.

"The ministry added that all the necessary precautions to ensure highly efficient preventive measures are being taken, including check-ups and observation of people in contact with patients, to guarantee protection of the society and its safety and preserve public trust."

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