Team Jumbo-Visma opts out of weekend’s Italian races

Team Jumbo-Visma will not participate in Strade Bianche and GP Industria, this weekend. The decision has been taken on medical advice, the recommendation of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as on sportive and practical grounds. It’s likely that the same decision will apply to other Italian races in March, depending on confirmation from the Italian government.

“We know that any team that goes to Italy might probably be prevented from racing in any other country. The focus has to be on salvaging the bulk of the season, not a handful of races”, a joint statement in which the cycling teams, including Team Jumbo-Visma, express their concerns to the UCI says. The teams are in close contact with the UCI, who will make their decisions known shortly.

Medical advice and guidelines of the involved authorities will be taken into account before any decision about participation will be made.

Richard Plugge, general director of Team Jumbo-Visma: “Together with the management of our team, I am constantly considering and acting in the interest of the health and working conditions of our riders and staff members. That includes, for example, preventing them from quarantine abroad. We have to look at the broader picture and take responsibility for the health of riders, staff and fans.”