Britain's Tarling abandons Giro after barrier crash

Britain's Josh Tarling has been forced to abandon the Giro d'Italia after a crash on stage 16.

Ineos Grenadiers rider Tarling, 21, slid on a very wet surface early on Tuesday's stage and suffered a heavy crash into a barrier.

The three-week Italian race began well for the Welsh rider when he claimed his first Grand Tour stage win with victory in the stage two time trial.

Tarling was unable to repeat that success in the race's second time trial, but finished second, seven seconds behind Dutchman Daan Hoole, on stage 10.

Although there were no further individual efforts against the clock to come before Sunday's finish in Rome, Tarling would have been hoping to complete a three-week Grand Tour for the first time.

Tarling was part of a seven-rider breakaway that had established a 30-second lead over the peleton as the race resumed in heavy rain after Monday's second rest day.

The Welshman slid out on a roundabout, with his bike going from under him and his body hitting the barrier.

Ineos Grenadiers confirmed the 2023 European time trial champion would not continue.

"Josh Tarling has unfortunately had to abandon the Giro d'Italia following a crash on today's stage," the team said on social media.

"Our team doctor is with him and he is undergoing further assessment. We will provide an update on his condition as soon as possible."

Tarling started stage 16 in 101st place - more than two hours behind race leader, Mexican Isaac del Toro (UAE Team Emirates).