British cyclist to compete in Spanish race just days after brother's crash death

Cyclist Josh Tarling will ride in a Spainish event just eight days after his younger brother Finlay died when he was hit by a car during the Volta a Portugal.

British cyclist Finlay Tarling, 19, was riding for the NSN Development Team in the eighth stage last Friday when he was hit by a vehicle that entered the course.

His older brother will take part in the Netcompany-Ineos team for the Vuelta a Espana, which is due to start on Saturday.

Their parents, Dawn and Michael, posted on Instagram on Thursday saying Josh will be riding in Finlay's memory.

"On Saturday, Joshua will be riding the Vuelta," they said.

"He has chosen to do so in honour of his brother Fin, with the full support of his family, surrounded by a team who have been incredibly supportive of whatever decision he made.

"I could not have wished for two boys who were closer growing up and into adulthood we have watched with pride as Joshua has been the most loving and supportive big brother to Fin. Following this devastating news, he has been an incredible strength for us all.

"Finlay was so incredibly proud of his big brother, and would be watching nose to the TV and shouting as he competed.

"So it is right that Josh honours that love and pride by doing what Fin always loved watching him do."

The Vuelta a Espana begins in Monaco on 22 August and finishes on 13 September in Granada.

Netcompany-Ineos director of racing and fellow Welshman Geraint Thomas said the team was fully supportive of Tarling competing.

"It goes without saying that, as a team, we all fully support Josh in his decision to take part in the race," he said on the team's website.

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The younger of the Tarling brothers was killed when he was struck by a goods vehicle not taking part in the race during the 166.8km route from Melgaco to Fafe, local media reported.

The Cyclistes Professionnels Associes (CPA) expressed fury after Tarling's death.

A spokesperson said: "We are speechless and filled with anger after the news of Finlay Tarling's death at the Tour of Portugal.

"It is not right that a young athlete's life should end this way, and we are furious that even today it is still not possible to prevent such serious accidents.

"We share in the grief of his family, friends, team, and everyone who knew Finlay. Rest in peace, young rider; we pray for you, and we will carry you in our hearts."

NSN Cycling's president, Adam Hansen, has called for cyclists to wear more protective helmets.

Portuguese President Antonio Jose ⁠Seguro expressed his condolences, saying ​Tarling's death had "plunged the peloton, the tournament ​and the host nation into mourning".

(c) Sky News 2026: British cyclist to compete in Spanish race just days after brother's crash death