The 6th stage of the Tour of Britain between Tewkesbury and Gloucester was originally due to take place on Friday. Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, it was initially announced on Thursday evening that only this stage would be cancelled. The race organisers stated that a decision on stages seven and eight would be made on Friday morning. However, less than two hours later, a second statement was released confirming that the entire race would be cancelled immediately.
Statement from the Tour of Britain
The statement from the race organisers reads: "Further to the earlier statement regarding the cancellation of stage 6 as a mark of respect following the death of Her Majesty the Queen, the organisers of the AJ Bell Tour of Britain can also confirm that stages seven (Dorset) and eight (Isle of Wight) will not take place. The decision has been taken in consultation with stakeholders and partners in the wake of operational circumstances, including the understandable reallocation of police resources at this time."
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Gonzalo Serrano was thus declared the overall winner of the tour. The Spaniard from Team Movistar, who had won the 4th stage, led the race after the end of the 5th stage on Thursday. The mountain classification went to Mathijs Paasschens (Bingoal Pauwels Sauces), the points classification to Tom Pidcock (Ineos Grenadiers).
Tour of Britain offers condolences
The death of Queen Elizabeth II was announced on Thursday evening, a few hours after the end of the 5th stage of the Tour of Britain. A ten-day period of national mourning will therefore be observed in the United Kingdom. It is to be expected that other major sporting events will also be interrupted or cancelled following the death of the Queen.
"The Tour of Britain organisation and the teams, riders and officials involved in the event offer their deepest condolences to the Royal Family at this sad time," the statement from the race organisation continued.
Teams express sympathy after the Queen's death
The teams taking part in the Tour of Britain also shared their grief following the death of Elizabeth II. "Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Royal Family. A remarkable and inspiring life dedicated to service. The Queen was a shining light at home and abroad. She will be greatly missed," writes Team Ineos Grenadiers.
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Team DSM tweeted: "Along with our colleagues from the UK and Commonwealth, we mourn the loss of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and extend our deepest condolences to her family and the people of the UK and Commonwealth."
