Coronavirus hits 2 UAE Tour staff, event cancelled

  DUBAI – The UAE Tour’s remaining two stages have been cancelled after two staff members tested positive of the new coronavirus or Covid-19. According to the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, two Italians were confirmed to have contracted Covid-19. The duo was admitted to the hospital for treatment. "The decision has been taken to ensure protection of all the race's participants," the Abu Dhabi Sports Council said, referring to the cancellation of the UAE Tour, adding that "safety comes at the top of all priorities". Dozens of participants were quarantined, including two more people believed to have come in contact with the infected Italians. On Saturday (February 29), the Department of Health in Abu Dhabi said that the 167 people quarantined had tested negative for the new coronavirus. The Ministry of Health and Prevention said all race participants, organisers and staff will be screened and quarantined as a precaution. Four-time Tour de France winner Chris Froome, one of the UAE Tour participants, said he was due to be tested. "It’s a shame that the #UAETour has been cancelled but public health must come first," he said on Twitter. The Department of Health in Abu Dhabi said it has conducted screenings in two hotels on Yas Island where the cyclists and crew had been staying. According to reports, the W Hotel and Crowne Plaza were on temporary lockdown until deemed safe by authorities. ICA/Expat Media
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