Josh Tarling to ride Vuelta a España after brother's death

Josh Tarling will ride at the Vuelta a España on Saturday after his younger brother Finlay, 19, died last Friday during the Volta a Portugal. Tarling, 22, has been named to the Netcompany Ineos squad for the race.

Tarling is regarded as a time trial specialist and won a Grand Tour stage at the 2025 Giro d'Italia. His selection for the Vuelta was confirmed by his team amid the family bereavement.

Finlay Tarling, 19, died in a high-speed collision with a van that had strayed on to the road during the eighth stage of the Portugal race. The incident occurred during the Volta a Portugal and was reported last Friday.

Netcompany Ineos colleagues offered public support for Josh Tarling's choice to ride. Fellow Welshman and former Tour de France winner Geraint Thomas said the decision was the rider's. Director of racing Thomas said it "goes without saying that, as a team, we all fully support Josh in his decision to take part in the race".

Since Finlay's death there have been calls for greater safety in the sport, including from the winner of stage one of the Tour of Britain Women, Dutch cyclist Lorena Wiebes (SD Worx - Protime). Riders have paid tribute and the Tarling family have been described as heartbroken, and the cycling union has called for better helmets.

The Vuelta a España begins on 22 August in Moncaco. The race finishes on 13 September.