Remco Evenepoel out of Giro d’Italia after positive Covid-19 test, Geraint Thomas takes leader’s jersey

Remco Evenepoel’s hopes of winning the Giro d’Italia are over after he was ruled out of the race following a positive Covid-19 test.

But just hours after the result it has been confirmed by his team that he will not continue at the race.

“The Belgian was forced to say goodbye to the first Grand Tour of the season after a routine test taken ahead of the first rest day came back positive to Covid-19,” said Soudal-Quick Step in a statement.

Ineos Grenadiers’ Geraint Thomas will take over the leader’s jersey and will hold a two-second advantage over Jumbo-Visma’s Primoz Roglic. Ineos’ Tao Geoghegan Hart is five seconds behind Thomas.

“I am really sorry to be leaving the race,” said Evenepoel. “As part of the team’s protocol, I took a routine test, which unfortunately was positive.

“My experience here has been really special and I was looking forward to competing over the next two weeks.

“I can’t thank enough the staff and the riders who sacrificed so much in preparation for the Giro. I will be cheering them on over the next two weeks.”

More to follow