Sven Erik Bystrom positive for Covid-19 but continues Giro d'Italia

With Remco Evenepoel testing positive and abandoning the Giro d'Italia, Covid-19 has rightfully been the main topic of the first rest day of the race. More fuel may be set to hit the fire however, as Sven Erik Bystrom remains in the race despite having tested positive.

"In consultation with our medical staff and the Chief Medical Officer of RCS and UCI following a positive COVID test, and in accordance to the UCI Medical protocol, Sven Erik Bystrøm will continue the Giro d’Italia," Intermarché-Circus-Wanty revealed in a post shared tonight. "Sven Erik Bystrøm underwent multiples medical examinations which did not show any symptom nor contraindication to sports practice. Therefore, as recalled by the UCI regulations for asymptomatic cases, he will start stage 10 on Tuesday."

The Giro was announced earlier this year that it would not force riders out of the race for a Covid-19 infection, that would be up to the teams and riders to decide. The World Champion seemed to show symptoms, but has nevertheless abandoned the race despite having won a stage hours before and leading the Giro in search of victory.

One day earlier Filippo Ganna abandoned the race with disappointment over the same situation. However riders are allowed to continue, with the Norwegian now the example to follow. It will remain to be seen whether other riders will follow the same path of continuation in the race, now that the option becomes more evident and put to practice.