The commander of the Temporary Traffic Detachment for the Volta a Portugal confirmed the death of 19-year-old British cyclist Finlay Tarling, CNN Portugal reports.

Major Tiago Machado told journalists after the peloton arrived in Fafe that the accident occurred at the rear of the peloton: “We don't know exactly what the circumstances were. There was a collision with a light vehicle. The circumstances will have to be investigated.”

In a statement, the race organisation said: “The organisers of the Volta a Portugal em Bicicleta, Jogos Santa Casa, deeply regret to announce the death of British cyclist Finlay Tarling, from the NSN Development Team, following a serious accident that occurred during the eighth stage of the race, between Melgaço and Fafe,” according to The Guardian.

The commander of the Temporary Traffic Detachment emphasised their strong police presence during the race: "We always prioritise the maximum safety of all cyclists in the caravan with a strong police presence throughout the entire stage, both mobile and stationary. The circumstances of the accident are still being investigated and will be communicated when there is a resolution.”

The organisers of the Volta a Portugal and the Portuguese Cycling Federation have extended their deepest condolences to Finlay Tarling’s family, his teammates, the NSN Development Team, and all his friends and loved ones “at this time of profound sorrow.”