Concerns over rider safety have led to a significant withdrawal from the Étoile de Bessèges cycling event in France. During the third stage of the competition, an unexpected incident occurred when a civilian vehicle entered the race route at a roundabout, causing alarm among participants. This alarming situation prompted several teams to prioritize the well-being of their athletes and staff, leading to a collective decision to withdraw from the day's proceedings.

A number of prominent teams chose not to continue with the stage, expressing serious reservations about the conditions under which they were expected to compete. The leaders of these teams, including those from Ineos Grenadiers, Soudal Quick-Step, Red Bull Bora-Hansgrohe, Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale, Lidl Trek, EF Education-Easy Post, and Uno-X Mobility, felt that the risks posed by such incidents were unacceptable. The remaining cyclists halted the race in solidarity, emphasizing the importance of safe racing environments for all competitors.

The safety and integrity of sporting events are paramount. This incident highlights the critical need for stringent measures to protect athletes during competitions. It underscores the responsibility of organizers to ensure that all participants can perform without undue risk. Such actions by the teams demonstrate a commitment to prioritizing human life and health over competition, setting a positive example for future events.