Cyclists competing in the Famenne Ardenne Classic in Belgium have fallen ill, with cow manure on the roads suspected to be the cause. The one-day race took place in wet conditions, with riders from the Lotto-Intermarché team suffering from abdominal pain, diarrhoea, fever and vomiting.
According to reports, three riders from the Lotto-Intermarché team were hospitalised after the race. The riders were due to start the Giro d'Italia on Friday, but it is unclear whether they will be able to participate.
The Famenne Ardenne Classic is a one-day road cycling race that takes place in the Flemish region of Belgium. The route passes through rural areas, where cows are common. In wet conditions, cow manure on the roads can become airborne and be inhaled by riders.
While the exact cause of the illness has not been confirmed, cow manure is a likely culprit. The incident highlights the importance of ensuring that cycling routes are safe for competitors.
Responding to the incident, a spokesperson for the British Cycling Federation said that they take the safety of their riders very seriously and are working with the organisers of the Famenne Ardenne Classic to determine the cause of the illness.