UAE Tour canceled after Italian cyclists have coronavirus diagnosed

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ABU DHABI: Sports officials in the Emirates have canceled the final two stages of UAE Tour cycling event after��two Italian competitors had coronavirus diagnosed.��

The Abu Dhabi Sports Council announced the cancelation late Thursday.

The council also said the decision had been��made to ensure the safety of all the cyclists and teams, which it described as a priority.

The Health Ministry said��that all participants, organizers and administrators will undergo medical check-ups.��

The ministry announced early on Saturday that the 167 people in contact with the two diagnosed tested negative, state news agency WAM reported.

We have taken note of the cancellation of the UAE Tour due to the occurence of the coronavirus. We wish all the people involved the very best, awaiting further developments.

— Team Jumbo-Visma cycling (@JumboVismaRoad)

It also said all precautionary measures related to quarantine were taken to prevent the spread of the virus.

The hotel hosting the riders, the Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island, was��sealed off on Thursday evening with riders, staff and members of the media��not allowed to leave pending their check-ups.

Italian media reported on Twitter the arrival of medical units at the team hotel.

Multiple Tour de France winner Chris Froome tweeted his disappointment at the news, but wished all those affected a "speedy recovery."

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It’s a shame that the has been cancelled but public health must come first. 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

— Chris Froome (@chrisfroome)

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The new coronavirus COVID-19��has infected more than 80,000 people worldwide - including dozens in the Middle East - and killed more than 2,800, mostly in China.

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