Chaos on the Road: Traffic Disrupts Etoile de Besseges Cycling Race

The Etoile de Besseges road cycling race in France faced significant disruptions as traffic incidents caused chaos, leading to the withdrawal of several teams, including Ineos Grenadiers. The third stage, set to run from Besseges to Besseges, was neutralized early after riders encountered a vehicle on a roundabout.

This followed a previous incident where a motorist attempted to enter the course near Marguerittes, causing dangerous conditions as the peloton approached at high speed. Maxim Van Gils, a 25-year-old Belgian rider, crashed as a result and had to abandon the race, subsequently being taken to hospital.

In response, Ineos Grenadiers issued a statement emphasizing that the safety of their riders and staff 'is of paramount importance'. Other teams, including Lidl-Trek, EF Education-EasyPost, Red Bull-Bora Hansgrohe, and Soudal Quick-Step, also withdrew from the stage due to safety concerns. Soudal Quick-Step labeled the presence of unauthorized motor vehicles on the course as 'unacceptable'.

As of now, it remains uncertain whether these teams will participate in the upcoming fourth stage from Vauvert to Mont Bouquet. The UCI Europe Tour expressed its concern on social media, sharing images of riders navigating around a lorry on the route and stating, 'Pictures we don't want to see.'

Veteran Belgian rider Thomas de Gendt, who retired last year, criticized the organizers, urging for better safety measures. The UCI has since announced that it is investigating the incidents and will take action to prevent future occurrences.

Race organizers acknowledged the challenges of fully closing roads but reiterated their commitment to ensuring rider safety.