Freire family laments news of Oscar's disappearance: "It is a strictly personal and intimate matter"

The cycling world had one of it's biggest scares in recent days as it was reported in local news that former Spanish rider and three-time World Champion Óscar Freire had left his home without giving information, without wallet and keys and had been gone for two days. His family informed the police who began a search, luckily successful. However, the family did not like that t personal matter leaked into the media.

"We do not understand the repercussions. There is no news," Óscar's brother Antonio told Marca. "Oscar has had a family problem and has been away from home for a few days and will return."

The disappearance of the Spaniard - who had recently been in the news quite a lot over the possibility of becoming Spain's new national coach - raised many concerns. Currently, his son Marcos races for UAE Team Emirates - XRG's development team and is set to become a pro rider in the coming years.

However at home not all was well. Details, of course, were not shared. But the episode followed a personal matter that the family had wished would stay private. "It is a strictly personal and intimate matter… Something private and should never have been disclosed to the media. At the same time, the cyclist himself and his family request that their privacy be respected and that comments about it on social networks cease."

The Freire family also told EFE Agency that "we regret the concern that the news of the temporary disappearance of Óscar Freire may have caused and at the same time we appreciate the interest shown by fans and the press in general". The 48-year old retired from cycling in 2012 but left an untouchable legacy including three World titles, three Milano-Sanremo titles, four stages and a green jersey at the Tour de France, and many more pro wins throughout his career.