In the Giro of Promises, the finish was yesterday on the Stelvio, the very powerful Alpine giant where Thomas De Gendt claimed a legendary stage victory 11 years ago.
Norwegian Johannes Stoney-Mettet was the great victor over Stelvio among the promises yesterday.
But not everyone rode uphill smoothly and under their own power. Amateur footage shows how the last riders in the race clung to team cars and motorcycles during the climb.
When the competition’s jury saw the photos in question, it was decided, after much hesitation, to award the 24 winners prizes.e disqualification. After additional examination of the images, 7 more participants were removed.
All disqualified riders will also receive a fine of 100 Swiss francs and a 25-point deduction from the UCI classification.
Among these riders who were allowed to pack their bags, there was also one Belgian named Tijl De Decker. Last month, De Decker was on the top podium at Paris-Roubaix to receive the vows.
“Our rider made a mistake, he realizes that. He didn’t intend to do it, but he said he gave in to peer pressure. He’s very disappointed,” the team said briefly this morning.
Four team leaders were also sent home.
