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

Josh Tarling, the 22-year-old cyclist for Netcompany-Ineos, will start the 2026 Vuelta a España on Saturday, August 22, just eight days after the death of his younger brother Finlay during a race in Portugal. The team confirmed Tarling's selection on Thursday, August 20, following a period of uncertainty after the tragedy.

Finlay Tarling, 19, was killed on August 14 when a vehicle not part of the event entered the course and struck him during the eighth stage of the Volta a Portugal, between Melgaco and Fafe. The incident has prompted an investigation by the Portuguese Public Prosecutors Office, which began on August 18.

Josh Tarling's decision to compete in the Spanish Grand Tour was supported by his parents, Dawn and Michael, who stated on Instagram that he would ride in Finlay's memory. They described the brothers as exceptionally close and said Finlay would have been incredibly proud to watch Josh race. The family has also launched a fundraising campaign to support young Welsh cyclists, which has far exceeded its initial goal.

Netcompany-Ineos director of racing, Geraint Thomas, stated the team fully supports Tarling's decision. He noted that Josh made the final call to...