Evenepoel leaves the Giro due to Covid, controversy and doubts: why such a hurry? – Corriere.it

In the hotels of the Giro d’Italia they talk about nothing else: Remco Evenepoel’s farewell for positivity to Covid, announced four hours after the victory in the Cesena time trial and the resumption of the pink jersey, shocked colleagues, managers and fans. Above all, the timing of the story is discussed. Evenepoel left the finish area of ​​the Cesena stage towards the Soudal – Quick Step hotel in Modena at around 18.30, after ceremonial, press conference and anti-doping control. Arrived at the hotel around 8pm, the Belgian had dinner with his companions.

The time of the quick test has not been disclosed: the team talks about a routine check, thus excluding that there were flu symptoms. The news was made known via Twitter at 10.30pm on Sunday evening, with a well-composed press release that also contained a long statement from the rider. This means that less than two hours have passed between the test, the outcome, the decision, the preparation of the text and the communication to the public of the withdrawal from the race. A huge decision made in a few tens of minutes.

Only one question: couldn’t they have waited for the night and the Monday when the Giro rests before deciding? The Giro d’Italia, like all professional cycling races, no longer provides for any obligation to check or abandon in the event of a positive result. A non-symptomatic positive can safely compete, there are probably other athletes in the same conditions (actually colds or flu) still competing. Waiting 24 or 36 hours before making a decision, isolating the athlete and letting him rest, would perhaps have been more appropriate and respectful towards the race. Also considering that fractions of Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday are very affordable. This morning, however, Soudal Quick Step published a gallery in which the world champion, masked and contrite, greeted his companions before taking, aboard a van with tinted windows, the route to Belgium or Spain, where Remco lives. for a journey in both cases of a thousand kilometres.

Heal up, champ

We and the #Tour are going to miss you, but we?re sure more opportunities to show yourself will come sooner or later!

Photo: @BeelWout pic.twitter.com/Hm24r5tAcL

— Soudal Quick-Step Pro Cycling Team (@soudalquickstep) May 15, 2023