Ineos Grenadiers has withdrawn their star rider, Ethan Hayter, ahead of the start of the time trial. The Vuelta a España stage was set to begin on Tuesday, 30th August. It is official, Hayter has pulled out because he tested positive for Covid-19.
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The actual source of the virus remains unknown because it is not yet revealed when the rider tested positive. This takes the toll of affected riders to a total of 11. Vuelta a España was important for Hayter because he was making his Grand Debute. The rider was doing exceptionally well. He even wore the white jersey ( given to the best young rider) due to the fact that Ineos Grenadiers finished second at the previous opening time trial. Jumbo-Visma took the win.
Just recently Ineos Grenadiers extended their contract with Hayter, as his younger brother also joins on board. His journey at the Vuelta ended abruptly after 9 stages. Although he was hoping to take multiple stage wins, or even try his luck at the time trial, he will have to sit this one out. Edoardo Affini (Jumbo-Visma) also called in sick, so with Hayter gone it brings us down to 160 riders. These 160 will be seen competing at the time trial stage on Tuesday.
Hayter turned to professional racing in 2020, since then he has had 16 wins to his name. Nevertheless, this season has proved to be the best for him so far. He won the Tour de Pologne’s overall title along with a stage win duo at the Tour de Romandie. This is a WorldTour breakthrough for him. He looked heartbroken from his words:
A big shame to have to leave the team La Vuelta just as things were getting going after a positive Covid test fortunately still feeling good and hoping to stay that way. Good luck to the rest of the Ineos Grenadiers here
Also Read: Alex Dowsett Takes Early Retirement!
Featured Image Via YouTube/ Cycling Pro Net
