Managing director Richard Plugge of Team Jumbo-Visma wants to prevent other riders, staff members or teams from becoming infected. “It is very disappointing, because we have done everything we can to prevent contamination. The team was doing well and on their way to a good result. However, everyone’s health is the most important and that’s why we’ve taken this decision.”

Sports director Addy Engels concurs with Plugge. “We have taken our responsibility after Steven’s contamination. We’ve all been very close to him. Regarding the situation at the team of Mitchelton-Scott, where multiple staff members got infected after one rider had contracted the virus, we think this is the most responsible decision. We’ve made this decision together with the riders, staff and the team’s management. It’s a big thing to withdraw from a race and especially in a race like the Giro d’Italia. But we’ve also taken this decision in the interest of the race. This is the safest decision we can make. Not only for our team, but also for other teams.”