Strong winds lead Tour Down Under to shorten stage 1
Finishing loop of 3.4km taken off race route
The organisers of the Tour Down Under have cut a portion of stage 1 due to concerns over the strong winds athletes are set to face. Race director Mike Turtur – in consultation with team and rider representatives – has decided to cut a short finishing circuit from the first stage.
The peloton were set to race a 3.4km loop after crossing the finishing line in Port Adelaide. That section has been removed, with the stage now finishing on the first crossing of the line.
"The reason for this decision is the collective opinion of all representatives taking into consideration that the extreme weather conditions may result in a major peloton break-up, which would be problematic on the finishing circuit," Turtur said in a press release issued by the race organisation.
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
Thank you for reading 5 articles in the past 30 days*
Join now for unlimited access
Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
*Read any 5 articles for free in each 30-day period, this automatically resets
After your trial you will be billed £4.99 $7.99 €5.99 per month, cancel anytime. Or sign up for one year for just £49 $79 €59
Join now for unlimited access
Try your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1